BY JOY OFASIA
CEO of the People with Disability Solomon Islands (PWDSI) Casper Fa’asala addressed the lack of social protection policy in Solomon Islands for children with disabilities in their education during the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities in Tulagi, Central Islands province.
Fa’asala expressed deep concern over the absence of schemes and social benefits that would provide essential support for disabled children, stressing that the country’s development must be inclusive.
Fa’asala pointed out the struggles of people with disabilities, including mothers, elders, and individuals suffering during natural disasters, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive social protection policy.
He emphasized that the International Day of Disabilities was not only about raising awareness but also about recognizing the valuable social, economic, and cultural contributions that people with disabilities bring to society.
This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” called for the empowerment and inclusion of disabled people in all aspects of society.
Fa’asala reminded Solomon Islanders that disabilities do not define people; instead, they possess unique talents and abilities that can contribute significantly to the country’s growth.
“People with disabilities are not sick; they are capable of achieving just as much—if not more—than others,” Fa’asala said.
He called for renewed commitment to work together with people with disabilities to build a more inclusive society, emphasizing that the contributions of disabled lawyers, administrators, and carpenters prove that they are an integral part of the nation’s future.
