ILO celebrates the achievements of 67 young persons with disabilities ready to integrate the world of work
With the support of the ILO in Madagascar, graduates of the National Vocational Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities (CNFPPSH) have the skills and tools they need to successfully integrate the world of work.
27 November 2024
ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR (ILO News) - Fanfan Rwanyindo Kayirangwa, ILO Regional Director for Africa, expressed her honour and gratitude at being in Madagascar to celebrate the successes and bright prospects of the young people trained by the National Vocational Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities (CNFPPSH). "These young people embody the future of our society and illustrate the crucial importance of inclusion and education for all," she said.
"Persons with disabilities number around one billion, or 15% of the world's population. Of these, 80% are of working age, but they often face considerable obstacles in gaining access to decent work," she emphasised. She pointed out that persons with disabilities, particularly women, face discrimination and obstacles that limit their economic opportunities, increasing the risk of poverty.
During the 2023-2024 school year, the 67 young people benefited from a variety of training courses, including cutting and sewing, office automation, pastry-making, woodwork and many others. "These courses open up professional opportunities that change the lives of these young women and men," said the Regional Director.
The ILO recognises the importance of these initiatives for social and economic inclusion. Supporting these young people reflects the ILO's broader mission: to promote decent work and access to economic opportunities for all, without discrimination. "We are working together to ensure that every beneficiary receives the support they need to develop their careers to the best of their abilities," she added.
An event of great interest
The official ceremony was honoured by the presence of Marie Marcelline Rasoloarisoa, Minister of Technical Education and Vocational Training, Hanitra Fitiavana Razakaboana, Minister of Labour, Employment and the Civil Service, Frederick Muia, Director of the ILO Country Office for Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius and Seychelles, Olga Vololona Rakotoarimanga, Coordinator of the Madagascar Workers' Conference (CTM), Béatrice Chang Ching Yui, President of the Social Commission of the Madagascar Employers Group (GEM), and officials from various ministries, including advisers to the Prime Minister, Christian Ntsay.
The Regional Director expressed her deep gratitude to the Prime Minister for his patronage of the event, and to the Ministers present for their commitment to Madagascar's young people. She also thanked all the project's implementing partners: the private sector, the Groupement des entreprises franches de Madagascar, the workers' unions, the entire ILO team and the journalists present.
"As the patron of this class, I am proud to see these young people ready to take on the challenges of the job market. Their determination and resilience are an inspiration to us all," concluded Rwanyindo. "Together, we will build a more inclusive and equitable future for all, ensuring that no one is left behind."
A national commitment
The Minister for Technical and Vocational Training warmly thanked the ILO's Regional Director for Africa. "Your support is of vital importance in implementing social and occupational inclusion policies. Thanks to you, we have been able to strengthen our actions in favour of people with disabilities, and above all offer them the tools they need to be fully integrated into the world of work," said the Minister.
"This event is also a testament to the government's commitment to the professional integration of people with disabilities. We understand that education and training are the keys to success, which is why, under the impetus of national policy, we are doing everything we can to ensure that everyone, without exception, has equal access to high-quality vocational training. This programme is one of our priorities to meet the needs of our society and to ensure that every citizen has the opportunity to participate in the economy in a productive and dignified way," she added.
Disability and work