The government needs to devise a strategy to put in place a proper education system for this deprived segment
KARACHI: According to World Health Organization (WHO), 5% of the population of every country consists of people devoid of the ability to speak and hear. Most of this 5% segment of the population is deprived of basic education as schools are not capable enough to teach these deaf and dumb students. There are only a handful of schools that cater to the needs of such differently-abled children. Thus it becomes even harder from them to receive education. This segment remains deprived of its right to be an active part of society.
The truth about the society is that it only incorporates within it a certain type of people that are deemed ‘normal’. Those that are different are frowned upon and shunned to the periphery. Since majority of the differently-abled people are unable to receive basic education, they are usually found working in petty job — in professions not involving public dealing and where they are not required to speak and listen to, too often. The government should seriously think about this issue and focus on the provision of rights to these differently-abled people.
The government needs to devise a strategy to put in place a proper education system for this deprived segment of our society and ensure them their fundamental human right. Basic sign language should be made compulsory in school curriculums throughout the country so that everyone is able to communicate with those that have a hard time. This will surely help our country become more sensitive to needs of the differently-abled people.
Faisal Ansar
Published in The Express Tribune, May 5th, 2020.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
