She called on Parliament, civil society, and the private sector to work together to ensure that persons with disabilities were not left behind in Ghana’s development agenda.

In an urgent statement on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, Madam Aubynn expressed appreciation to President John Mahama for introducing free tertiary education for PWDs, describing the initiative as a landmark step in promoting equal opportunities.  

The Day, which is marked on December 3 annually, is on the theme: “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.”

The legislator emphasised that “disability is not inability” and urged government agencies to prioritise accessibility in public buildings, enforce the Disability Law, and ensure that policies translate into tangible improvements in the lives of PWDs.

Madam Aubynn lamented that despite existing legislation, many persons with disabilities continue to face barriers in education, employment, and public participation.

She cautioned against what she termed “lip service” to disability issues, stressing that concrete action was needed to address their needs and uphold their dignity.

The Ablekuma North legislator noted that the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed globally served as a reminder of the importance of inclusion and equity.

This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” highlights the role of PWDs in driving sustainable development and the need for societies to remove obstacles that hinder their full participation.