The Catholic Bishop of Wa, Most Rev. Dr. Paul Bemile has urged the government to put in place the necessary structures that will ensure a comprehensive implementation of the disability law. This he noted will drastically reduce the difficulties and discrimination the physically challenged go through. Dr. Bemile was speaking at the sod cutting ceremony for work to begin on the construction of a separate campus for the physically challenged Unit of the Wa School for the deaf at Loho in the Upper West Region. The EUR350,000 campus will comprise among others a three classroom block, dormitories and a dinning hall.
The project is being funded by Equal Opportunities Fund, a Holland based NGO. Dr. Bemile said the rights of the physically and physically challenged are burden or curse to society. The Bishop said when the disabled are given the same opportunity like others they can develop their talents for the benefit of themselves and the nation. The Headmistress of the Wa School for the Death, Esther Yelfari said though the school’s catchments area covers Upper West, Upper East and parts of Northern and Brong Ahafo regions it has very limited boarding facilities.
She said as a result only 18 out of the 61 students of the mentally challenged unit are boarders. The President of the Equal Opportunity Fund Annie Manders expressed regret that many societies do not regard the mentally challenged as a priority. She therefore called for concerted efforts by stakeholders, including civil society, churches and donor agencies to ensure that the project does not only come to fruition but also see to its smooth running.
The Deputy Regional Minister, Mrs. Winfred D-yaka called for the removal of cultural practices that impede the development of the mentally challenged. She appealed to people to develop habits that will encourage them to develop their talents instead of discouraging them.
