International Day of PWD: SAC Vice Chairman delivered a speech

The ceremony to mark the 2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities was held at the Myanmar International Convention Center-II (MICC-II) in Nay Pyi Taw on Tuesday and was attended by Vice Chairman of the State Administration Council Deputy Prime Minister Chairman of the National Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Vice Senior General Soe Win, who delivered an opening speech.In his speech, Vice Senior General Soe Win emphasized the importance of promoting dignity, rights, and benefits for persons with disabilities through collaboration and awareness-raising efforts.

He noted that December 3rd has been designated as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by the United Nations since 1992, with the aim of increasing global understanding of disability-related issues. Myanmar began commemorating this day in 1994 and is celebrating it for the 31st time this year.

For the 2024 celebration, the theme set by the United Nations is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This underscores the goal of empowering persons with disabilities to take leadership roles and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable society.

The SAC Vice Chairman highlighted challenges faced by persons with disabilities, such as social barriers, inequality, and limited participation, calling for collective efforts to address these issues. He stressed the need for compassion and support to enable individuals with physical or mental disabilities to overcome limitations and contribute meaningfully to society.In line with this year’s theme, he urged stakeholders to enhance leadership capabilities among persons with disabilities, include them in leadership roles, and value their perspectives and contributions.

He encouraged collaborative efforts to uphold their rights and promote their active participation in society.Following his address, Vice-Senior General Soe Win presented awards, certificates of honor, and cash prizes to the first, second, and third prize winners of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities Essay Competition.

Then, SAC members Admiral Tin Aung San, Lt-General Yar Pyae and Vice Chairman (1) of National Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Union Minister Dr. Soe Win presented prizes of honor and certificate of honor to the prize winners. Next, the Video Message sent by the UN Secretary General and the documentary video marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities were screened and the Vice Chairman (2) of National Committee and Chairman of Myanmar Federation of Persons with Disabilities U Thein Han Thu expressed words of thanks.

After that, SAC Vice Chairman Chairman of national Committee presented cash of honor to those who participated in the entertainment programs, took documentary group photo and observed the exhibitions of books on persons with disabilities, handmade products and photo exhibition booths.