A state-level leadership workshop for persons with disabilities was held in Dimapur focusing on empowerment, inclusion, and policy-shaping leadership.
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DIMAPUR — A state-level leadership workshop for persons with disabilities was held on the theme "Empowered voices, ability in action, shaping tomorrow's leaders" at Hotel Saramati in Dimapur on April 28.
The workshop was attended by 52 persons with disabilities from 17 districts, according to an update.
The programme proceeded in three sessions. The first session focused on capacity building and awareness, led by Yangerjungla, Coordinator-cum-Trainer of LIC HFL Sarthak at Prodigals' Home, and K Sani, Project Director of Prodigals' Home.
They discussed the roles, governance, and functioning of non-governmental organisations. Akihoto K, State Coordinator for the UDID project, spoke about various schemes under the Social Welfare department available for persons with disabilities.
In the second session, Limawabang Jamir, Secretary of the Social Welfare department and State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, delivered the keynote address.
Jamir stated that empowerment begins when voices are not just acknowledged but implemented. He noted that the approach to the principles of disability should be based on resilience to adaptivity. Pointing out the responsibility to work with the disabled community, he underlined the need for society to transform mindsets from sympathy to respect.
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He stated that the government is committed to empowering persons with disabilities, citing initiatives such as the Chief Minister's Corpus Fund, where financial assistance is provided. He added that the Social Welfare department is exploring means to secure more funds.
The session concluded with Kiyevi I Swu, Deputy Director of Food and Civil Supplies, and Nungshilemba, Deputy General Manager of NST, sensitising delegates about various service schemes available in their respective departments.
The final session featured a closed-door discussion among participants, led by former Disability Commissioner Diethono Nakhro. She brought forward pressing concerns facing the disability community and highlighted the importance of disability leadership in shaping policies and narratives.
She called for sustained collective action, stronger solidarity, and the urgency of building support networks to nurture emerging leaders. She added that lasting inclusion will only come when persons with disabilities are at the forefront of decision-making.