The Ghana Federation of the Disabled (GFD) has expressed appreciation to President Nana Akufo-Addo and the NPP government for creating opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to be absorbed into the job market.

According to the Chairman of GFD, Mr. Ofori Debrah, the tollbooth management initiative that has been given to PWDs in the country, is a step in the right direction since it opens way for them to be absorbed into the job market, raising their economic status and enhance their social image in society.

Mr. Debrah during the launch of the initiative, observed that the social acceptance of Persons With Disabilities is guaranteed and that by giving them opportunities to work and contribute to the development of the country, there is every reason for government to be sure that its determination to do away with PWDs on the streets begging, will materialize.

“This is a step to make them work hard to acquire skills to be absorbed in the job market, and we appreciate government for that,” he said.

Mr. Debrah also indicated that government has taken steps to ensure that PWDs are given pride of place in the Ghanaian society and that, over the years, PWDs have appealed to governments to be given collective job opportunities but no positive response had been received until the NPP government under the able-leadership of Nana Akufo-Addo came to power and decided to change their lives for the better.

“The GFD is impressed about the steps taken by the ministry to ensure that the federation is involved in the recruitment of the people. The federation facilitated recruitment, ensuring that everyone has the information, those who expressed interest applied and 250 applications were received. 172 made themselves available for interviewed and 74 have initially been taken on board,” he revealed.

He, however, appealed to government, not to make the toll booth management initiative the only opportunity for PWDs but open more avenues for them to be employed.

“Government should initiate an employment policy which will open more doors to include PWDs into the job market,” he appealed.

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwesi Amoako Attah also expressed happiness for living up to the commitment of reserving vacancies to PWDs.