Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, Zimpapers Reporter
INCREASED digital inclusion is critical to ensuring that people living with disabilities access opportunities in education, business, employment and communication, Senator Anna Shiri has said.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 21 people with disabilities who completed an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training programme at Bulawayo Public Library on Friday, Sen Shiri said digital skills were essential for full participation in modern society.
“Technology is now part of almost every facet of our lives. We use it in education, communication, business, employment, accessing information and connecting with the world. Therefore, persons with disabilities must not be left behind in the digital space,” said Sen Shiri.
She called on educational institutions to ensure that technology and digital platforms were accessible to people with different disabilities.
“As the Senator representing Persons with Disabilities, I will say that digital inclusion is disability inclusion.
“We must ensure that ICT training, digital platforms, computers, smartphones and other technologies are accessible to persons with disabilities. Accessibility should not be treated as an afterthought. It must be built into our programmes and educational institutions,” she said.
Sen Shiri commended Bulawayo Public Library, the organisers, facilitators and partners for providing ICT training opportunities for people living with disabilities.
She said the programme had demonstrated the potential of inclusive training to equip participants with practical skills for personal and professional development.
“The ICT training programme has demonstrated that when persons with disabilities are given the right tools, training and support, they can learn, create, work and contribute meaningfully to society,” said Sen Shiri.
She challenged the graduates to put their newly acquired skills to use and continue learning to create opportunities for themselves and others.
“To the graduates, I encourage you not to stop here. Use the skills you have gained to continue learning and create opportunities for yourselves and others,” she said.
A total of 21 graduates were awarded ICT certificates.
