Disability is a term that refers to people who face physical
or mental challenges. This can include individuals who are physically
handicapped, visually impaired, deaf, or those with mental health
conditions. In Asia, many disabled people face discrimination, preventing
them from accessing education, employment, and other opportunities. However,
with changes to societal mindsets and government policies, people with
disabilities can be integrated into society, achieving great success.
Unfortunately, disabled individuals often face discrimination in the job
market. Many employers see them as liabilities rather than assets to their
organization. However, this is an unfounded fear, as many disabled
individuals have made significant contributions to organizations. Blind and
hearing-impaired individuals have been successful in various fields,
including business, teaching, and sports. Some have even become their own
bosses, running their own businesses. It is important to recognize that
physical ability is not the only factor that determines success.
However, success stories are few and far between due to discrimination. Many
disabled individuals feel unwanted and rejected by society, leading them to
isolate themselves. The mindset of society needs to change to accept and
integrate disabled individuals.
Governments have a role to play in promoting disability rights. Laws and
regulations should be introduced to make it compulsory for employers to
allocate a certain number of jobs for disabled individuals. Special
legislation should also be introduced to provide financial assistance and
medical access to disabled individuals from low-income backgrounds.
Additionally, ongoing campaigns need to be launched to educate society on
the need to accept and live in harmony with the disabled.
Awareness campaigns should begin at a young age, starting with children in
schools. Instead of setting up special schools for disabled children,
regular schools should be required to accept disabled students. This will
enable regular students to understand and accept their peers despite their
disadvantages. Disabled children will not suffer from low self-esteem or
embarrassment from being segregated from their peers.
Another important aspect of disability inclusion is ensuring public
infrastructure, transport, and government buildings are disabled-friendly.
This will enable disabled individuals to have access to these facilities and
not feel limited in any way.
It is time for society to accept disabled individuals as an important
component of our community. Despite their disabilities, they play an
important role in our lives and deserve our respect, acceptance, and
understanding. By integrating disabled individuals into society, we can help
them achieve their full potential and build a more inclusive and equitable
world for all. |