Bangladesh is on the fast-track to development, with middle-income status just a few years away.
To that end, however, it has been stressed, time and time again, that this development must be holistic and equitable, providing all Bangladeshis the benefits and opportunities which would allow them to better their lives.
However, in many instances, we have failed, such as people with disabilities, who are oftentimes neglected when it comes to government policy, infrastructural developments, or employment opportunities, to name a few.
At the root of this discrimination lies the social stigma that surrounds their condition, preventing them from living up to their potential as contributing members of society and living fulfilling lives.
In this regard, we applaud the work done by the Down Syndrome Society of Bangladesh (DSSB), which provides Bangladeshis diagnosed with the disability the opportunity to receive an education and learn important skills, both of which will go a long way towards creating opportunities for them in the future.
People with disabilities have plenty to offer, but first, we must nurture them, and provide them with the support necessary to overcome the challenges they face. Ultimately, we are the ones losing out on their immense potential as contributors to the economy, as citizens of Bangladesh, and as human beings.
We offer our gratitude to those directly involved in initiatives aimed at helping people with disabilities and hope that organizations and people offer their support to the cause. It is a necessary step towards eradicating the misconceptions regarding people with disabilities.
