PWD Law of Osun State: CAI4SR Advocates Inclusion, Implementation and Empowerment
By Titilola Olaniyan,
Community Advancement Initiative for Self Reliance CAI4SR has advocated inclusive society for Persons with Disabilities, and promotion of self-reliance as well as empowerment of persons with disabilities in Osun state.
The initiative, supported by Christoffel Blinded Mission aims, to advance disabilities inclusive development through the implementation of disability law and empowerment of Organization of Person with Disabilities (PWDs), held in Osogbo the state capital
The workshop which was designed for journalists in Osun state to promote equal opportunities and access to social services with the persons with disabilities, according to the organiser, focused on the journalists understanding the PWD law, and building the capacity of PWDs, by advocating their rights and participation in decision making process.
Barr. Veronica Ene Onoja of JDPMC Osogbo, in her session mentioned that some of the laws that guided the rights of persons with disabilities include National laws, International laws and State laws.
Adding that journalists have a huge role to play on educating the public about the Disability Law, she also highlighted the PWD law as, “Osun state criminal court law, Discrimination against persons with Disabilities (prohibition) law 2024, the convention on the discrimination of persons with disabilities, states the obligations of parties involved.
Speaking further that, the PWDs law reflect balance and equality, and adding that public building should be adjusted to where a disabled person can easily get access into, she stated that the laws also made mention of making amendment on transportation for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Director, CAI4SR, Eni Ayeni, in her remarks stressed that the sensitization workshop became a necessity in order to uphold ethical standards in reporting and understanding the legal frameworks that protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
CAI4SR ED who promised to work closely with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organization and community leaders, to ensure effective implementation of the disability law in osun state, stated that the law, which was enacted to promote the rights and welfare of person with disability, provides for equal access to education, healthcare, employment and social services.
She added that journalists have a fundamental part to play in implementation of the PWD law, adding that the law will protect the captured clusters of the disability community, as well as bring an end to stereotype and name-calling of persons with disability.
She added that “the workshop will not only sharpen reporting skills but also empower journalists to amplify disability issues, challenge stereotypes, and contribute meaningfully to building a more inclusive society through responsible and impactful journalism.”
The Christoffel Blinded Mission, a renowned international Organization that works to promote the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, has been supporting disability-inclusive development program in various part of the world.
According to CAI4SR Executive Director, Dr Ayeni, the Organisations support for the initiative in osun state is a testament to its commitment to promoting disabilities-inclusive development globally.
She added that with the support of Christoffel Blinded Mission, the initiative is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of persons with disabilities in Osun state with awareness and more sensitisation to the people.