The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Chief Adviser Dr Fakhruddin Ahmed on Saturday called upon individuals, private sector and non-government organisations (NGOs) to come forward along with the government for the welfare of the disabled.

He made this call while accorded a reception to the disabled sportspersons who won 71 medals in the World Special Olympics- 2007 held in Sanghai, China.

Dr Fakhruddin distributed crests and certificates among the disabled sportspersons amid clapping.

In Sanghai Olympics, 48 disabled boys and girls won 71 medals, including 32 gold , 15 silver and 24 bronze medals in different events.

Founder Chairman of Special Olympics Bangladesh, Ashraf Ud Daula gave the welcome speech with Secretary to the Chief Adviser's Office Kazi M Aminul Islam in the chair.

Dr Fakhruddin congratulated the disabled sportspersons for achieving a rare honour for the country from international sports competition. Success of the disabled in the Special Olympics, in the history of sports of the country, has deeply impressed all, he added.

Appreciating the officials of the Special Olympics, the Chief Adviser said selfless, skilled and devoted leadership is necessary to achieve something great.

The disabled have earned the recognition as world class sportspersons through relentless training with patience, he added.

He also thanked the guardians, coaches, sports organisers and sponsors for preparing the disabled to compete in such sports event.

Dr Fakhruddin directed the Ministry of Youth and Sports to take steps to provide play grounds exclusively for the disabled in each district including Dhaka.

He thanked the Grameen Phone for sponsoring the disabled to participate in the Sanghai Olympics and urged other organisations in private sector to follow this example.

The Chief Adviser said the government is aware of the problems of the mental and physically handicapped . It took various steps for their welfare including formulating law and implementing welfare projects for them.

Bangladesh has already signed the UN charter regarding the rights of the disabled, he added.

Kazi M Aminul Islam said the disabled needs more support from the society to prove their worth in different fields.

Ashraf Ud Daula urged the government to allocate a respectable fund for the disabled in the next budget.