13% of Fijians live with some form of disability - Dr Koroivueta

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Dr. Josefa Koroivueta has highlighted that 13% of Fijians live with some form of disability.

While speaking at the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Koroivueta also stressed that the government is committed to empower persons with disabilities.

He says that the theme Empowering Persons with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality focuses on empowering individuals with disabilities for the inclusive, equitable and sustainable development envisioned in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development pledges to "leave no one behind".

Koroivueta adds that the ministry is currently in the process of formulating an implementation plan for the National Council for People Living with Disabilities and will be going around the country for consultation sessions.

Meanwhile, Milli Karoro who has low vision says despite of ones' disability, they should not look down on themselves, come out of their comfort zones and not see disability as a hindrance on their life.

The event also had displays by the disabled students who are part of the grass root training programme.

Small tools for joinery work was given out to Tailevu North Disability Provider Organization to help with the making of their crafts.

The event also marked the launch of the Right of Persons with Disabilities ACT booklet.