–As CSA Boss calls for persons with disabilities inclusion in the Public and Private Sector
By Vaye A. Lepolu
The National Union of Organizations for the Disabled and the National Commission on Disabilities, in collaboration with the Second Lady of Liberia, have joined counterparts in commemorating World White Cane Safety Day.
World White Cane Safety Day is globally celebrated on October 15 of each year with this year’s global theme, “Promoting Inclusion, Celebrating Abilities, and Advocating Access for People.” Speaking at the occasion, the Director-General of the Civil Service Agency, Josiah Joekai, said the day is a stride, adding that the government must ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, thrives in society.
Joekai stressed that with a shared purpose and a common commitment to commemorating World White Cane Safety Day, it is a day to celebrate resilience, acknowledge abilities, and advocate for a world that is inclusive and accessible for all. Josiah Joekai added that while it is true that the government is committed to upholding the ARREST Agenda for inclusivity, emphasizing the pillars lay the foundation for a fair and just society that prioritizes the well-being of every citizen, including the disabled.
“The suffering and stigma attached to disability during that time were profound. It was not just a battle against physical limitations; it was a fight against the social isolation, neglect, and marginalization that came with being different.” Joekainoted. The CSA boss furthered that a society that treats its disabled members with the dignity and respect they deserve is far more impactful to its citizens.
He asserted “Today, while there are still challenges, the situation is different. We see recognition of the abilities of the disabled and their valuable contributions to society. There is growing awareness that every person, regardless of ability, has something important to offer. Through advocacy and legislation, we have begun to create opportunities for equal, fair, and just treatment.”
He pointed out that the stigma has not just disappeared entirely, but the voices calling for the inclusion of the disabled and acceptance are louder than ever before. Joekai, however, noted that the government’s role is crucial in driving these changes, adding by supporting the National Union on Disabilities and National Commission on Disabilities, the government can ensure that the disabled community has a strong voice in policymaking and access to resources necessary for an improved quality of life.
Serving as keynote speaker at program making World White Cane Safety Day, Director-General Joekai lamented that the ARREST Agenda of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai provides a practical framework for addressing the needs of the disabled ensuring that people with disabilities have access to land and resources and are included in agricultural training programs and cooperatives.
At the same time, Josiah Joekai narrated that the country’s rule of law must guarantee the protection of disabled individuals from discrimination and uphold their rights as enshrined in laws and international conventions.
While advocating for inclusive schools and vocational training centers, the Civil Service Agency Director-General stressed that schools, both academic and vocational, should be well equipped for people with disabilities with the skills to thrive in the workforce.
Meanwhile, Josiah Joekai said the government alone will not suffice the necessity of the disabled. Rather, it needs the unwavering support of international partners who have contributed significantly to the progress of the country.
According to him, international partners’ resources, expertise, and commitment have driven many of the initiatives that are breaking down barriers for the disabled, thus calling on the government to extend substantial support to the Group of 77, which plays a crucial role in advocating for and supporting people with disabilities. He noted that strengthening partnerships with the disabled community will ensure that more individuals with visual impairment feel the impact and provide a network of support that extends to the most vulnerable members of society.
He urged disabled and disability institutions to unite and work together adding it will ensure the vibrancy of the disability community. Joekai, therefore, vowed to be a champion to champion the cause of the disability community by advocating for inclusivity, something he said would make the national government increase the budget through advocacy.
Director-General Josiah Joekai challenged state-owned enterprises to invest a portion of their corporate social service resources to support the disability community and government entities to provide relevant employment opportunities for people with disability. The CSA boss called on civil society, both private and public sectors, to commit to a journey of compassion, inclusion, and shared responsibility, thus creating a society where every person is valued not for what they lack but for their unique strengths and abilities they bring to the table.
