Matiari: Chairman District Council Matiari, Makhdoom Ahmed Zaman, participated in a seminar organized by the National Disability & Development Forum (NDF) to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Makhdoom Ahmed Zaman emphasized that there should be no discrimination against persons with disabilities. He said that society must accept disability and focus on exploring the hidden abilities of persons with disabilities by providing equal opportunities in learning, education, workplaces, employment, and dignified access to all facilities. He added that persons with disabilities are highly capable and can contribute meaningfully when provided proper opportunities.
Makhdoom Ahmed Zaman also assured his full support to NDF for establishing a Rehabilitation Center for children with intellectual disabilities in Matiari, recognizing the urgent need for such a facility in the district.
President NDF Pakistan, Abid Lashari, stated that “disability is not an issue; the lack of opportunity is the real challenge.” He stressed that the message of the International Day is to move from sympathy to empathy and build an inclusive society where everyone has dignified access. He further announced that NDF will offer its services free of cost to establish the rehabilitation center in Matiari.
NDF Focal Person for Matiari, Mr. Salman Laghari, highlighted that implementation of the 5% job quota for persons with disabilities remains a major challenge. He pointed out that assistive devices are limited and public offices in the district lack accessibility features.
Responding to these concerns, Makhdoom Ahmed Zaman announced that all public offices, including his own, will soon become accessible, with ramps and wheelchairs available for public use.
Speakers at the seminar also stressed the need for reserved 5% seats for persons with disabilities in legislative assemblies to ensure their representation in decision-making processes. Mr. Tariq Hussain Channar Program Manager NDF, Syed Mushi Shah, Syed Munawar Ali Shah, Sardar Ayaz Memon and others also present in the event.
