Summary:
- Niyigaba, who is also a sign language interpreter, expressed deep concern over the lack of adequate special needs educational facilities and the scarcity of sign language experts in public places throughout Uganda.
KISORO: Kisoro District LCV Councilor representing people with disabilities, Baker Niyigaba, has urged the Ugandan government to establish a special needs school in every sub-county across the country.
He made this plea during the inaugural session of a three-day workshop for the deaf at Kisoro Municipal boardroom in Kisoro Municipality on Thursday.
Niyigaba, who is also a sign language interpreter, expressed deep concern over the lack of adequate special needs educational facilities and the scarcity of sign language experts in public places throughout Uganda. He highlighted the significant challenges faced by people with disabilities, particularly the deaf, due to communication barriers which often lead to social stigma.
In addressing the issue of illiteracy among the deaf community, Niyigaba emphasized the importance of establishing special needs education facilities in each constituency as a crucial step towards improving educational outcomes for deaf individuals. He called upon parents with disabled children to ensure their access to education.
Niyigaba called on the government to address the alarming rates of sexual harassment and assault experienced by people with disabilities, particularly women who are deaf-muted. He expressed dismay over the frequent incidents of rape and defilement faced by these vulnerable individuals, exacerbated by the difficulty in accessing justice due to communication barriers.
Niyigaba reiterated his appeal to the government to prioritize the establishment of special needs schools and to take decisive action to protect the rights and safety of people with disabilities across Uganda.
Cue in Baker……on government…….RR//
