There is a lack of empathy, which is trying to understand the problems and challenges of persons living with disabilities, according to a study. The study is carried out jointly by the Ministry of Education and UNICEF.
To change the attitude of people and improve facilities for people with disabilities, the education ministry is in the process of drafting an action plan.
Persons living with disabilities said while the communities show care and pity, many do not try to realize and understand their situations. They say there is a need to create awareness among people on the importance of empathy towards people and children with disabilities.
Also, persons living with disabilities say many believe their disabilities are a result of past deeds.
“It is very difficult for people to change this attitude and the mindset by the nature of the society and the social stigma. It’s very difficult to come out from the sense of sympathy in people,” Pema Chhogyel, the Deputy Chief Programme Officer of the Education Ministry, said.
In order to change this concept in society, a workshop to discuss the strategic action plan was held recently in Punakha. The action plan is being prepared based on the findings of the Knowledge, Attitude and Practices study.
“I think it is important that the environment is made accessible, the right support and intervention services are at home. It should start from home and basically when it comes to schooling, from the education, from the health sector, all the approaches should come together so as to minimize, or to control or reduce the burden of disability, rather than looking at their challenges,” Ugyen Wangchuk, the Executive Director of Ability Bhutan Society, said
With a strategic action plan, it is expected to enhance the situation of persons living with disabilities in the country by bringing better understanding in society.
