Disassociate physical defects from potentials of persons with disability – Oti-Asirifi

Head of the Disability Support and Services Unit, Takoradi Technical University, Joseph Mensah Oti-Asirifi has urged Ghanaians not to associate the physical defects of the disabled with their potentials or what they can do, as the World marks International Persons With Disability Day (IDPWD).

In his message to citizens on the IDPWD, Mr. Asirifi-Mensah urged Ghanaians to appreciate the strengths and abilities of persons with disabilities.

”As we celebrate International Day of Persons With Disability (IDPWD) today, I urge you reader, not to associate physical limitations of a person with his or her potentials or abilities; rather, know that there’s an invisible but a remarkable quantum of strengths and abilities residing in those persons. For, it is the repetition and the reaffirmation of their disabilities that lead to the misconception that they are indeed disabled. Let’s speak to encourage them, and act to amplify the beauty of their abilities”.

Mr. Asirifi-Mensah also used the opportunity to encourage students with disabilities at the Takoradi Technical University not allow their disabilities or their immediate environment, to impede their ambitions and efforts to excel, while also reserving some special praise for individuals who have supported students with disabilities.

”To the over seventy (70) Students With Disability (SWD’s) enrolled here at Takoradi Technical University, I encourage you to be discipline and strive for academic excellence, making good use of the enabling training platform offered to you by the University. You must be ambitious to challenge the learning environment, and not to allow it to challenge you.”

”On the observation of the IDPWD today, I pray for special Divine favor for all those who have in anyway acted to find some career life for SWD in the University. Special mention goes to the Vice Chancellor Rev. Professor John Frank Eshun, Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Victor Kweku Bondzie-Micah, Dr. Kofi Asante Kyei, Dr Adjoa Kwegyirba, Mr Eric Bruce-Amartey Jnr, Mr Owusu Ansah Ankrah, Mr Frederick Amoah, Mr Emmanuel Yaw Attah, Mr Sam Ackah, Mr Frank Amoani Arthur, Mr Charles Vroom, Mr Anthony Minlan, Madam Janet Keku, Madam Olivia Agyemang, and all persons within the University community who mean well for SWD’s or have acted for the sake of their welfare. God will continue to bless you and your household!’