3 days ago
Leadership, learning empower youth with disabilities in Brunei
Advisor to the Council for Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities Datuk Paduka Alimin Abdul Wahab delivers a speech. - Photo: Borneo Bulletin/ANN
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Council for Welfare of Persons with Different Abilities (MKOKU) hosted the Youth Disability Camp 2025 which included Nadi Asy-Syura workshops covering curriculum vitae (CV) writing, interview preparation, financial literacy, public speaking and leadership skills.
It also included policy and education discussions on the Persons with Disabilities Order, disability allowances, caregiver allowances, and inclusive education and team-building challenges comprising interactive exercises linking the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The three-day camp at Bilik Hijau and Bilik Simpur at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium on Thursday (Aug 14), saw the participation of 38 individuals.
The participants engaged in activities themed around awareness, resilience, skills and knowledge, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Key sessions included 'Understanding the UNCRPD' led by MKOKU leaders to familiarise participants with the convention and its local relevance, as well as presentations by member associations outlining their roles and focus areas in advancing disability inclusion.
Advisor to MKOKU Datuk Paduka Alimin Abdul Wahab officiating the camp, highlighted the importance of submitting periodic reports as required by the UNCRPD.
The programme aims to provide experience-based learning opportunities that enhance access to education, employment, and inclusive infrastructure – ensuring that persons with disabilities (PWD) are not left behind in national development.
The camp aims are to increase awareness and understanding of the UNCRPD among Brunei's youth with disabilities; strengthen leadership, confidence, and community engagement; foster cooperation between PWD organisations, the government, private sector, and civil society; and align disability empowerment efforts with Brunei Vision 2035 and the SDGs. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
