Minister presents laptop computers, cash to disabled

Accra, Sept. 30, GNA - The Minster of Environment Science and Technology Ms Sherry Ayittey on Friday presented 10 rlg laptops and a chequ= e of GHc1,000 to the Disabled Christian Fellowship International (DCFI), an organization for persons with diability in Accra. The presentation was made when members of DCFI called on the Minister to express their appreciation for inviting and sponsoring them to participate in the just ended first Ghana Science Congress. Presenting the items, Ms Ayittey said the disabled persons had showed their ability in craft during the congress through the various artefacts they exhibited.
She said it was the responsibility of Government to empower disabled persons to become skilled oriented and experts in the creative industry. She noted that with the laptops the disabled persons could be trained to become ICT experts, adding that the unique software and features like th= e internet access would open up the world for them. The Minister added, 93These laptops would help you to organize traini= ng workshops in all the regions to impart to all persons with disability the skills in sewing, bead making, doormat making and basketry among many other handiworks.
She explained that the Government's project of using science and technology to drive the country's economy would help disabled persons to feature in many jobs in the public sectors which would form part of their migration from the street to industry. Ms Ayittey said Government was putting in place measures to help disabled persons to realize their dreams and ambitions. Mr Joshua Allotey Pappoe National Project Coordinator thanked the Minister for the opportunity as the only disabled organization to exploit various opportunities particularly with the beads which were made from broken bottles as a good example of recycling and sustainable environment. He said physically challenged persons in communities which faced a lo= t of challenges had less access to resources, opportunities decision making, economic opportunity and lack of knowledge. Mr Pappoe noted that through the support from the Ministry the organization would establish training centres to provide training to remove the disabled from the street giving the platform to explore their talent an= d gifts for the development of the nation. He urged Government to empower members to contribute to their individual development and the nation as well. The members adorn the Minster with a bead necklace and bracelet made from broken bottles.