KATHMANDU, JUNE 14
In a bid to shed light and spread awareness on the situation of Persons with Disabilities and the challenges faced by them, particularly children, a National Dialogue on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was organised here today.
Nepal has committed to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. However, studies show that perpetuation of discrimination against persons with disabilities is a burning issue in Nepal. In fact, persons with disabilities have to go through various kinds of abuse, exploitation, neglect and economic hardships, as per UNICEF.
Today's dialogue brought together relevant stakeholders to review and reflect on innovative programmes and practices and learn from each other.
The programme was organised by UNICEF in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, National Disabled Fund, Delegation of European Union to Nepal, Royal Norwegian Embassy to Nepal, and Save the Children, among various stakeholders.
The conference included a panel discussion on the overall situation of persons, particularly children, with disabilities.
This was followed by focused discussions on neurodevelopmental disabilities, including autism. The discussion on neurodevelopmental disabilities, including autism, focused on early detection, early intervention, alternative learning pathways, vocational support and life planning. The discussion calls for collaboration between government institutions, healthcare professionals, and parent organisations to support families for sustainable solutions.
The event also showcased innovation and best practices in the field. Among the innovative approaches highlighted during the dialogue were: inclusive education initiatives such as development of online platform for teachers with selfpaced modules and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) activity banks. Additionally, the introduction of a free open digital library (E-Pustakalaya) supports the inclusion of children with low vision and blindness, while the integration of sign language videos and development of Nepali braille software enhance accessibility within the existing online resources.
Furthermore, the conference emphasised the importance of accessible WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities in schools.
UNICEF, in partnership with CBM Global and other stakeholders, has successfully improved the accessibility status of WASH facilities in approximately 100 schools. The integration of accessibility features not only ensures equal opportunities for all children but also contributes to poverty reduction and community development.
Nepal, as a signatory to the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), is committed to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities.
UNICEF recognises the intersectionality of disabilities with gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, socio-economic background, and geographical location, and advocates their equal treatment as other citizens.
In 2019, UNICEF conducted the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey in collaboration with the Government of Nepal and the Norwegian Embassy to assess the prevalence of disability.
UNICEF's 2019 survey revealed that 13 per cent of children aged 5 to 17 years in Nepal experience functional limitations, including depression and anxiety.
Stakeholders have stressed the need to mainstream persons with disabilities agenda in the development programmes and policies, and for collaboration, synergy, and innovation for the advancement of the situation of such persons.
A version of this article appears in the print on June 15, 2023, of The Himalayan Times.
