People living with disabilities are often excluded from various forms of societal development. The United Nations in 1992 proclaimed December 3rd as the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD). The day is celebrated in a bid to promote an understanding of people with disability and encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being. The day also seeks to increase awareness of the benefits of the integration of people with disability in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

The theme for 2011 is: “Together for a Better World for All: Including Persons with Disabilities in Development”.

Through her grantee, All Children Charity International Foundation (ACCIF), TY Danjuma Foundation supports the economical empowerment of people with disabilities under its Income Generation; Women and Youth Initiatives.

The ACCIF project funded by TYDF seeks to provide 40 youths living with disabilities in Kaduna state with vocational and entrepreneurial skills training in a bid to enhance their lives economically. Skills such as tailoring, computer appreciation and shoe making will be imparted into the young persons. They will also be provided with business management training in order to equip them with skills for self reliance and sustainability of their business. Through the project, the exploitation of people with disabilities will be reduced, their self-esteem, and self-reliance will be increased.

Also, for more information on the Foundation’s grantee ACCIF, please visit www.accifng.org

To learn more about the International Day of People with Disability please visit http://www.idpwd.com.au