Just a few days ago, Bangladesh with the rest of the world observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3. This day was all about promoting the rights and abilities of disabled people. I, however, believe that these people are not disabled. They are just differently abled. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is not concerned exclusively with either mental or physical disabilities but rather encompasses all forms of disabilities, from Autism to Down Syndrome to Multiple Sclerosis.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), around 15 per cent of the world's population is considered to have some form of disability. Our responsibility is to know their rights because when we secure the rights of persons with disabilities, we move our world closer to upholding humanity's core values and principles. We should raise awareness about the benefits of integrating persons with disabilities into every aspect of social life. People in vulnerable situations such as persons with disabilities are the most excluded and left behind. In line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to "leave no one behind", it is crucial for governments, public and private sectors to collaboratively find innovative solutions for the persons with disabilities to make the world a more accessible and equitable place because they are born to shine. And persons with disabilities should not be excluded from the general education system based on their disability.
Afroza Sheikh,
Dania, Dhaka,
ilcbd2008@gmail.com