December 06, Colombo (LNW): The National General Secretariat for Persons with Differently Abled, under the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Protection, and Community Empowerment, organized a national celebration for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 at Polhena Beach, Matara. The event attracted over 400 individuals with disabilities from various districts, along with local and foreign visitors.
This year’s program focused on fostering leadership qualities among people with disabilities and encouraging inclusive tourism in Sri Lanka. Attendees participated in entertainment activities and competitions, including beach volleyball, with facilities designed for accessibility, such as a mobile toilet for wheelchair users provided by the Army. Emotional performances by children with disabilities moved participants, making the event memorable and impactful.
The celebration aimed to improve accessible infrastructure for persons with disabilities, promote workplace diversity, and encourage innovation to reduce disparities in both public and private sectors. Representatives from government institutions, the private sector, educators, healthcare workers, and parents of children with disabilities were among the attendees, along with support from the security forces.
The event was supported by a wide array of public and private institutions, including the Matara District Secretariat, Matara Municipal Council, National Water Supply and Drainage Board, and Sri Lanka Police. Educational institutions like Rohana Special School and Olcott College also contributed, alongside tourism sector representatives and voluntary organizations.
The program was coordinated by the Social Services Division of the Matara District Secretariat. It reflected Sri Lanka’s commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible society while aligning with the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, declared by the United Nations to promote awareness, dignity, and the well-being of persons with disabilities.
