Action plan being made to identify disabilities in early childhood!

The Ministry of Social and Family Development has announced the development of a National Action Plan on Disability Inclusion, aimed at improving the quality of life and societal participation of individuals with disabilities across the Maldives.

Speaking on the Raajje Miadhu programme aired on PSM News, State Minister Ahmed Athif highlighted that the cornerstone of the plan is the early identification of people with disabilities, enabling timely intervention and support.

The initiative places strong emphasis on enhancing healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, an area identified as a top priority.

The first step in the plan will be to identify people with disabilities as early as possible. The counseling they receive from the first day of marriage and the family planning process are things that will produce adequate results if we do this in a systematic manner. Therefore, this plan will place great emphasis on minimizing the occurrence of disability and early childhood care in such cases.

State Minister Ahmed Athif stated

The National Action Plan is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Social Affairs and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

It is structured around five key pillars: health, education, financial empowerment, inclusivity, and access to justice.

According to the ministry, the plan is not only focused on addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities but also aims to dismantle societal and structural barriers that limit their opportunities.

It seeks to reduce dependency, promote autonomy, and create pathways for skill development, employment, and economic independence.

By strengthening existing services and creating inclusive systems, the plan aspires to empower individuals with disabilities to live dignified, independent lives and contribute meaningfully to the community.