ANSDRC urges Respect, Empowerment for Persons with Learning Disabilities

By Praise Chinecherem

Anambra State Disability Rights Commission (ANSDRC) has called for renewed commitment to building society that value, respect and empower individuals to reach their full potential regardless of learning ability.

It also called for more inclusive world that recognized abilities rather than limitations and opportunities rather than barriers.

Chairman, ANSDRC, Dr Chukwuka Ezewuzie made the call in his message to mark International Week for Persons with Learning Disabilities, themed, “Promoting Inclusion, Understanding, and Support for Persons with Learning Disabilities”

According to him, persons with learning disabilities deserve the same respect, opportunities and support as every other member of society, stressing that caring for them begins with understanding, patience, acceptance and inclusion.

He called on educational institutions to create inclusive learning environments where learners with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations and support, just as he advised teachers to use teaching methods that meet diverse learning needs and foster participation and sense of belonging.

He said, “As we commemorate the International Week for Persons with Learning Disabilities, we join millions around the world in raising awareness about learning disabilities and promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons living with them.

“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. However, having a learning disability does not mean a person lacks intelligence, talent, or the ability to succeed.

“Persons with learning disabilities deserve the same respect, opportunities, and support as every other member of society. Care for persons with learning disabilities begins with understanding, patience, acceptance, and inclusion.

“Families play a critical role by providing love, encouragement, and emotional support. Parents and caregivers should recognize the unique strengths of each individual, celebrate their achievements, and avoid comparing them with others.

“Early identification and intervention can significantly improve learning outcomes and build confidence.

“Schools and educational institutions should create inclusive learning environments where learners with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations and support.

“Teachers should use teaching methods that meet diverse learning needs and foster participation and a sense of belonging.

“Communities also have a responsibility to eliminate stigma and discrimination. We must challenge harmful stereotypes and ensure that persons with learning disabilities are included in social, educational, recreational, and employment opportunities.

“Healthcare professionals, social workers, and disability advocates should work together to provide services that enhance learning, communication, independence, and overall quality of life.

“Most importantly, we must listen to the voices of persons with learning disabilities. Their experiences, ideas, and aspirations matter. Nothing about them should be decided without their active participation.

“As we mark this important week, let us commit ourselves to building a society where every person, regardless of learning ability, is valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

“Together, we can create a more inclusive world—one that recognizes abilities rather than limitations, and opportunities rather than barriers.”