Dhaka: Children with intellectual disabilities can become important assets for the country if they are provided with proper care, education, training, and appropriate opportunities, Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dhaka Farida Khanom said on Tuesday. She made the remarks while addressing a programme as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Police Liberation War Museum in Rajarbagh, marking the 10th anniversary of 'Mayer Badhon', an organisation working for the development of children with disabilities.
According to United News of Bangladesh, food and gift items were distributed among children with disabilities during the programme. Farida emphasized that disability should not define a person's intellect, talent, or potential, citing world-renowned physicist Stephen Hawking as a notable example. She highlighted the immense potential of children with disabilities, stressing the importance of focusing on their abilities and talents rather than their limitations. Farida called for creating opportunities for necessary education, training, and support to enable these children to become a source of pride for their families, society, and the country.
Farida advocated for respect, love, and opportunities for children with special needs, rather than sympathy. She urged joint efforts by families, society, and the state to create an environment where the hidden talents of these children can flourish. She emphasized that a child's disability should not determine their future; instead, proper care and opportunities can unlock their potential.
Praising the decade-long activities of Mayer Badhon, Farida said the organisation has set an admirable example of humanitarian service by caring for children with special needs. She assured the organisation of financial assistance for the welfare of children with autism and intellectual disabilities, indicating that khas land could be allotted for their permanent accommodation where appropriate.
Mayer Badhon President Fawzia Yasmin chaired the programme, attended by representatives of civil society, parents, members of the organisation, and children with special needs. According to the organisers, 96 children with special needs participated in the programme, including 16 orphans and 11 who had only their mothers. Speakers at the event underscored the need to change society's attitude towards children with special needs and to create greater opportunities for their education, training, and employment.