By Delicia Janneire | January 28, 2025
The National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) has embarked on a comprehensive process to develop a new five-year strategy aimed at improving the lives of persons living with disabilities in Guyana.
The initiative is being supported by several partners, including Canadian company Catalyst Advisor and UNICEF.
Stakeholders gathered to review and discuss the needs of individuals with disabilities, with the goal of ensuring their voices are heard in the strategy formulation process.
NCD Chairman Ganesh Singh emphasized that the commission is keen on receiving feedback from those whose lives will be directly impacted by the strategy.
Singh noted that as the world and Guyana move towards digitization, ensuring that persons with disabilities have access to digital infrastructure is essential.
He also highlighted the need to address issues related to physical access to buildings, stressing the importance of updating and enforcing building codes to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
In addition to accessibility, the strategy will focus on key areas such as access to justice, employment opportunities, health services, and education.
Singh called for increased partnerships with stakeholders to guarantee the rights of persons with disabilities, emphasizing that the commission alone cannot achieve these goals without external support.
The proposed strategic plan will guide the NCD’s efforts from 2025 to 2029, aiming to foster a more inclusive society for all.