The Ministry of Gender & Family in association with the Disability Council has held a special ceremony for the ‘Disability Award 2016’ to commend outstanding persons with disabilities and in recognition of outstanding achievements on behalf of persons with disabilities. Vice President, H. E. Abdulla Jihad was the guest of honor of the special event held this morning at Dharubaaruge. The event was also attended by Cabinet Ministers and other senior officials of the Government. This year, the special award was conferred to the following recipients:
Outstanding persons with disabilities:
- Al-Hafiz Abdul Rasheed Mohamed, Vavathi/Sh. Feydhoo
- Ahmed Najeeb, Feerozge/G. A. Vilingili
- Dheena Latheef, Naares
- Mohamed Awwam, Aasam/S. Meedhoo
- Nazeeha Abdul Sattar, Dhilbahaaruge/H. Dh. Kurinbi
Institutions that provide education for children and persons with disabilities:
- Hafiz Ahmed School, Gn. Fuvahmulah
- Jamaluddin School, Male’
Civilians working for the betterment of persons with disabilities:
- Mariyam Shathurath Shakir, G. Dh. Thinadhoo
- Zihunath Hassan, S. Hithadhoo
Organizations that provide services to children and persons with disabilities:
- Beautiful Eyes Down syndrome Association
Professionals providing technical support to children and persons with disabilities:
- Ifham Hussain, Managing Director, Maldives Autism Association
- Fathimath Zameel, Ma. Vaaveyo Villa, Male’
Organizations providing financial assistance and equipment for persons with disabilities:
- Ali Fulhu Thuthu Foundation
Institutions providing jobs for persons with disabilities:
- Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC)
- Beautiful Eyes Down Syndrome Association
Advocacy efforts by media outlets on the rights of persons with disabilities:
- Radio channel VFM 99, VMedia Group
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Gender & Family Ms. Zenysha Shaheed Zaki congratulated the award winners and reiterated the need for family and community support for persons with disabilities, and highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive society and preventing marginalization of children and persons with disabilities. A video report was also shown at the ceremony that showcased the lives of people with disabilities in the Maldives, which was followed by a special performance by individuals with disabilities.
The Disability Award is conferred by the Ministry of Gender and Family and the Disability Council biennially.
25 September 2016