The Anambra State Disability Rights Commission has called for renewed commitment to building a more inclusive society that values, respects and empowers persons with learning disabilities to achieve their full potential.
The Commission urged stakeholders to embrace a system that recognises abilities rather than limitations and prioritises opportunities over barriers.
Chairman of the Commission, Dr Chukwuka Ezewuzie, made the call in a statement to mark the International Week for Persons with Learning Disabilities, themed: “Promoting Inclusion, Understanding, and Support for Persons with Learning Disabilities.”
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Ezewuzie said persons with learning disabilities deserve equal respect, opportunities and support, stressing that meaningful care begins with understanding, patience, acceptance and inclusion.
Inclusive Learning Environments
He called on educational institutions to create inclusive learning environments where learners with disabilities receive adequate support, and urged teachers to adopt diverse teaching methods that encourage participation and foster a sense of belonging.
“Learning disabilities are neurological conditions that affect how a person receives, processes, stores or responds to information. They may affect reading, writing, speaking, listening, reasoning or mathematical abilities,” he said.
The Chairman noted that such conditions do not define intelligence or limit potential, but individuals with learning disabilities can thrive when provided with appropriate support.
Ezewuzie also urged families to provide emotional encouragement, advising parents and caregivers to recognise individual strengths, celebrate achievements and avoid making comparisons.
He emphasised the importance of early identification and intervention in improving learning outcomes and building confidence.
Promote Inclusion
According to him, communities must eliminate stigma and discrimination by promoting inclusion in education, social life, recreation and employment.
He also called on healthcare professionals, social workers and disability advocates to collaborate in improving communication, independence and the overall quality of life of persons with learning disabilities.
“Most importantly, we must listen to the voices of persons with learning disabilities. Nothing about them should be decided without their active participation,” he said
Ezewuzie reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to building a society where every individual, regardless of learning ability, is valued, included and empowered to contribute meaningfully to national development.
