PNG’s #IAmAble campaign will be rolled out in December this year.
The campaign was launched in October 2016 by the Commonwealth Youth Council (CYC).
This initiative is to empower mostly young persons living with disabilities (PLWD).
The campaign not only includes those who are physically disable but also captures those living with mental health.
The purpose is to identify those young people living in commonwealth countries who are living with disabilities but are successful.
“There are PLWD making a difference in their own personal lives and the society at large. This campaign goes to show that PLWD should be considered as partners for development and not be seen as charity,” said David Rupa, an executive of the CYC.
A few programs such as the Poem blaster have been rolled out under this campaign by the council.
Some of the 52 commonwealth countries have already adopted this campaign.
PNG however, is still behind because of funding, says Rupa.
“Many departments that I’ve approached have challenges in funding. But the campaign is very simple, doesn’t need a lot of funding…maybe only a thousand kina to print shirts or cover logistic,” said Rupa.
He also added that this campaign is more powerful and goes with the slogan #IAmAble.
In the meantime, discussions continue.
Rupa has also approached the Cheshire DisAbility Services.
He says many of these young people live in societies around Port Moresby and a social worker visits them. Some of them have Mike Manning Youth Democracy Camp hosted by Transparency International PNG, by their Youth Against Corruption Association.
PNG’s #IAmAble campaign will be rolled out during the 6 days of Activism in December.