The Government has taken commendable strides in improving the lives of persons living with disabilities, a segment of the population which in the past had often been overlooked and marginalised.
One of the most notable achievements is the creation of a National Register for Persons Living with Disabilities. Prior to 2020, Guyana lacked a complete and organised record of such individuals, a gap that hampered the ability to deliver targeted support. Today, close to 26,000 individuals, including almost 6,000 children, are listed on this register, ensuring representation across every region.
A tangible demonstration of this commitment is the allocation of $875 million to provide financial assistance directly to registered persons living with disabilities. Each individual will receive an additional $35,000 grant, supplementing the $100,000 grant previously allocated for persons 18 and above. This financial boost is more than just monetary relief; it is a step towards empowerment, recognising the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities and offering them an opportunity to enhance their quality of life.
The Government’s investment extends beyond financial aid. Several initiatives are aimed to create long-term benefits for persons living with disabilities. The Guyana Digital School, for instance, would include a platform specifically designed for special needs education. This platform would enable parents to register their children from the comfort of their homes, and have them access tailored educational resources. Such an initiative is not only inclusive, but also transformative, as it leverages technology to break down barriers to education.
President Dr Irfaan Ali’s pledge to provide at least one bus in every region to support persons with disabilities is already taking shape, with seven buses having been acquired so far. This measure would address a persistent challenge faced by many individuals with disabilities — mobility — and enhance their access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
Plans to establish the first innovative farm fully operated by persons living with disabilities showcase the administration’s vision of creating sustainable and inclusive economic opportunities. This climate-smart farm would not only contribute to the nation’s agricultural output, but would also empower individuals with disabilities by integrating them into mainstream economic activities. By dedicating a section of supermarkets to stocking products from this farm, the Government is fostering a culture of social responsibility and encouraging consumers to support this initiative.
The commitment of this administration to inclusivity and empowerment is also evident in its responsiveness to the needs of the disabled community. The Government’s adoption of proposals from the disability manifesto submitted before the 2020 elections demonstrates a willingness to listen and act. Enhanced access to special education in schools, expanded opportunities for tertiary education, and support for virtual learning platforms have collectively made education more accessible for persons with disabilities. As noted by Ganesh Singh, President of the Guyana Society for the Blind, these efforts have significantly improved the prospects of persons with disabilities, enabling them to envision a brighter future.
It is evident that the Government’s initiatives are not merely token gestures, but are underpinned by a genuine desire to foster inclusivity and equal opportunity. This is the administration’s multi-faceted approach. By addressing the diverse needs of persons with disabilities, the Government is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive society, wherein everyone has a chance to contribute and thrive.
As Guyana continues on its developmental trajectory, it is imperative to sustain and expand these efforts. The progress achieved thus far is laudable, but there is always room for improvement. Continued collaboration with stakeholders, including organizations representing persons with disabilities, would be key to identifying emerging needs and refining strategies accordingly. Additionally, raising public awareness about the rights and potentials of persons with disabilities can foster greater societal acceptance and support.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration deserves commendation for its proactive and inclusive approach to supporting persons living with disabilities.
