The Anambra State Disability Rights Commission has called for renewed commitment to building a more inclusive society that values, respects, and empowers individuals to achieve their full potential, regardless of learning ability.
The Commission also 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 marking the International Week for Persons with Learning Disabilities, themed: “Promoting Inclusion, Understanding, and Support for Persons with Learning Disabilities.”
Ezewuzie said persons with learning disabilities deserve equal respect, opportunities, and support, stressing that meaningful care begins with understanding, patience, acceptance, and inclusion.
He called on educational institutions to create inclusive learning environments where learners with disabilities are properly supported, 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.
He noted that such conditions do not define intelligence or limit potential, adding that individuals with learning disabilities can succeed when given appropriate support.
Ezewuzie further urged families to provide emotional encouragement and support, advising parents and caregivers to recognize individual strengths, celebrate achievements, and avoid comparisons.
He emphasised early identification and intervention as key to improving learning outcomes and building confidence.
According to him, communities must work to eliminate stigma and discrimination by promoting inclusion in education, social life, recreation, and employment.
Communication Independence
He also called on healthcare professionals, social workers, and disability advocates to collaborate in improving communication, independence, and quality of life for 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 need for sustained commitment toward building a society where every individual, regardless of learning ability, is valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully to development.
