INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS OF DISABILITIES

‘Promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda’

All the five project Dzongkhags team namely Chukha, Dagana, Punakha, Sarpang and Trashigang including Thimphu team was actively involved in observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by inviting local leaders, relevant stakeholders, people with disabilities and their families and conducting various activities. It was commenced with a speech about disability and the importance of observing the day followed by cultural programs (dance) in between. Further, persons with disabilities’ talent was presented in the 5 project Dzongkhags aligning with this year’s theme ‘Promoting the participation of persons with disabilities and their leadership: taking action on the 2030 Development Agenda’ as well as promote an understanding about disability issues and mobilize support for dignity, rights and well-being of people with disabilities. Certificates to all the PWDs/CWDs who participated were given to acknowledge and encourage their participation.

Signature pledge on the canvas was conducted in the five project Dzongkhags as well as in Thimphu starting with the chief guests, local leaders, relevant stakeholders, persons with disabilities & families. They pledged to work towards the goal of social inclusion and passed on the message to encourage PWDs participation in the community. The aim was to gather everyone’s view and work towards a common goal.

Art competition on the theme “Accessibility, a major barrier to inclusion” was organized among the students of Royal University of Bhutan and the result was also announced on 3^rd December to observe the day. Through the visual representations this year, we aimed to create a wider understanding about disability in the Bhutanese Society and contribute for a social cause. Cash prizes and certificates for the top three participants is to be awarded for their dedication in visualizing the major barrier to inclusion.

Panel discussion on the International Disability Day was also aired prior to the IDPD in the national television called Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS) by inviting relevant stakeholders such as a person with visual impairment representing people with disability, an official from Gross National Happiness Commission (GNHC) advocating on the policy for people with disabilities, an official from Jigme Dorji National Referral Hospital (JDNRH) representing health and an official from ABS representing DPOs in Bhutan. The discussion was covered in both English and Dzongkha and was also broadcast in BBS Radio.

ABS would like to thank BMZ/GLRA, India, Dee, Martin and Bhutan Society Trust Fund, UK for the support in making the day a successful one.