The Ghana Society for the Socially Disadvantaged (GSSD) in Kaneshie, Accra, held a graduation ceremony celebrating eleven individuals with disabilities who have completed their vocational training in dressmaking, leatherwork, and beadwork.
The event, which marked a significant milestone for both the graduates and the organisation, was filled with messages of empowerment and calls for greater community support and inclusion.
Dr. Prince Boamah Abrah, Acting Director of the Department of Social Welfare, who was the guest speaker, highlighted the alignment of the day’s theme, “Empowering Individuals with Disabilities to live independently,” with the Department’s mission.
He commended the GSSD, noting its evolution from a private organisation to “one of our most impactful Social Welfare Institutions,” providing essential skills, building confidence, and offering opportunities to individuals with disabilities.
He affirmed his department’s belief that empowerment is the key to unlocking the full potential of people with disabilities.
Dr. Abrah applauded the graduates, saying, “Today, we celebrate your hard work, determination, and resilience.” He also emphasised their roles as entrepreneurs, leaders, innovators, and agents of change, urging them to use their talents and perspectives to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s socio-economic development.
“Your success today, paired with your resilience, is a testament to the fact that an inclusive and equitable society is not merely a vision but a tangible reality we can build together.”
Madam Evelyn Ampadu, the caretaker manageress of the GSSD, delivered an inspiring speech, congratulating the graduates on their accomplishments.
“As you stand here today,” she stated, “you have proven that disability is not inability.”
She emphasised that people with disabilities possess unique talents and abilities, which often surpass those of their able-bodied counterparts.
The center, established in 1958, currently has 40 learners and has graduated hundreds of individuals to date. It aims to empower people with disabilities to lead independent lives.
Madam Ampadu highlighted several success stories, noting that many graduates have gone on to lead fulfilling lives, including starting families and providing for their loved ones.
“They are living proof that disability does not limit one’s potential,” she asserted.
Madam Ampadu urged parents and guardians not to hide their children with disabilities, but instead to love, encourage, and empower them to participate in activities that help them grow.
She emphasised that everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential.
To the graduating class, Madam Ampadu offered encouragement: “Continue learning and growing. Believe in yourselves and your abilities. Be ambassadors for inclusive and accessible communities. Use your skills to create opportunities for others.”
She also recognised the dedication of all those who have supported the GSSD in its mission, icluding the Social Welfare Department and religous organisations.
The eleven graduates, including six males and five females, completed courses in beadwork, dressmaking, and leatherwork.
While the courses are typically three years long, some of the graduates have spent five or six years learning their craft due to intellectual disabilities.
Madam Ampadu expressed confidence that they are well-prepared to provide quality services to the public.
She called on the community to patronise their businesses, emphasising that doing so would help them become self-reliant and reduce the number of people with disabilities begging on the streets.
Finally, she appealed for an end to the stigma often faced by people with disabilities when they are providing services.
The event was attended by officials from the social welfare department, the disability community as well as parents, gaurdians, and other relatives of the graduates.
The Ghana Society for the Socially Disadvantaged offers free residential training, including meals, to all its learners
SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com