Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology together with the project partners held a reconnaissance forum for leaders of persons with disabilities groupson promoting disability awareness. The forum comprised of coordinators and representatives of from all sub counties in Siaya who convened at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Hall in Bondo. This was preceded by the official launch of the project titled “Promoting Awareness and Participation of Persons with Disabilities in Education and Community Programmes (PAPPS) in Siaya” at the County Commission of Siaya early August, 2018.
The forum was held to sensitize the leaders of persons with disability groups on the role they played in the project and also identify the needs and challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
While giving his remarks, Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Prof. Joseph Bosire, assured the leaders that the project endeavored to identify persons with disabilities and ensure they are sensitized on their rights for their personal development and also for the Country through participation in education and community programmes.This was supported by Deputy Vice Chancellor Research Innovation and Outreach Prof. Benson Estambale who added that the successful implementation of this project, could expand more avenues to reach more people in the Country.
The forum was seasoned with a balanced interaction between the project leaders and the audience who asked questions and made remarks on their day to day engagement in the community. MsOrpa, who is the Disability Specialist Leonard Cheshire Disability said that the organization aims at providing inclusive education that ensures all persons receive education regardless of their disposition. She added further that the project endeavors to eradicate negative attitude towards persons with disability as they are part of the community. National Council for Persons with Disability Coordinator Siaya County also encouraged the audience to cease the opportunities available for persons with disabilities.