Disabilities Should Be Integrated Fully Into All Spheres of Social, Economic Activities Says Zainab

In a statement read on  her behalf at the commemoration of the Day of the African Child held at The Gambia College   in Brikama, Minister Fatou Mass Jobe Njie, she said this would  not only help to eliminate all forms of discrimination against persons with disabilities, but enable us  to accelerate  development process.

“The theme for this year’s commemoration which was   ‘The Right of Children with Disability: The Duty to Protect, Respect, Promote and Fulfill,” indeed befitting, she said.

According to her, the theme emphasised the rights of children with disability to the same opportunities and care as other children.

The right to non-discrimination is one of the four overarching principles of the convention on the rights of the child, Zeinab said.

“As we reflect on the importance of the day and the reason for gathering here , as well as the fact that children are the best future for any society, there is the need for us to take onboard the needs and aspirations of the disabled children in realising their educational objectives. Early childhood education prepares children for school and ensures that young children have opportunities based on constructive interactions. Schools can be powerful social equalizers providing a stimulating environment where children develop language skills and advance their cognitive, emotional and physical capabilities,” she concluded.

Other speakers included UNICEF Rep in The Gambia  Mrs. Aichatou Diawara Flambert, Governor  Lamin Sanneh of West Coast Region and Deputy Permanent Secretary   Makie Tall,  Technical at the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.