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Events
SLDD Events:
- International Day of Persons with Disabilities
- Orientation for Students with Disabilities
- Past Events
International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2023
Annual Recognition of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
United for change on International Day of Persons with Disabilities
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed on 3 December each year to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of people with disability.
This year, the Student Life and Development Department (SLDD) commemorated IDPD by hosting an informational booth and a sensitization activity on Friday, December 1, 2023 at Heart Ease Car Park.
The theme of the 2023 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is: "United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities". By acknowledging this important day, we can take action to remove barriers for the people with disabilities and contribute to positive change in our classrooms and our community.
Click here to view highlights
UWI Orientation Creates Inclusive Environment for Students with Disabilities
As the International Day for Persons with Disabilities was celebrated this weekend, Amanda Henry, a final-year student at The University of the West Indies (The UWI), recently shared a powerful testimony about her transformative educational experience.
Read full release here: https://bit.ly/4149kH
Message For International Day Of Persons With Disabilities -
Senator Floyd Morris, PhD
Dr Floyd Morris is an advocate for disability rights, an academic who has published research on people with disabilities, a politician who has sponsored path-breaking legislation, and a champion for the rights of the disabled regionally. He is a graduate of the University of the West Indies Mona (UWI), where he attained his PhD in Government (2017). He is currently a Lecturer, a Political Communication Specialist, a Disability Advocate, Author, and Motivational Speaker. https://ansacaribbeanawards.com/laureates/dr-floyd-morris/
Each year, the world is asked to pause and celebrate with persons with disabilities on December 3, as International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This pause and celebration is significant as persons with disabilities is one of the world’s largest minority groups and they continue to face varied forms of discrimination. Such discriminations have contributed to these individuals being the poorest in their society.
Poverty is an existential threat to humanity. This is why, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 has it as a preeminent priority for abolition by 2030. However, data to date is showing approximately 80 per cent of the global population of 1.3 billion persons with disabilities living in poverty. The world is therefore languishing behind in this desirable goal for the 2030 Agenda. This is why the United Nations has as the theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities as “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs for, with and by Persons with Disabilities”.
As Caribbean people, we are called upon to renew efforts to achieve the goals set out in the SDGs by 2030. All Caribbean countries have agreed to the SDGs and must therefore redouble the efforts to achieve the goals by 2030. For this to be done, greater efforts must be made to create a more inclusive and responsive healthcare architecture throughout the Caribbean for persons with disabilities. Education systems must become inclusive for persons with disabilities. The labour market must include persons with disabilities and create jobs for them that does not violate the decent work agenda. And, importantly, cities, towns and communities, must become accessible for persons with disabilities. Accomplishment of these goals will unequivocally result in the eradication of poverty among the population of persons with disabilities.
I wish to call upon Caribbean governments to recommit to these goals in the context of persons with disabilities and establish mechanisms to track and monitor the progress for the next seven years. The process should commence with a specific census of persons with disabilities in each country to get a more accurate indication of these individuals and their needs. A special monitoring and evaluations mechanism should then be formulated to ensure that all the targets relating to persons with disabilities in the SDGs are being realized.
As CARICOM’s Special Rapporteur on Disability in the Caribbean, I pledge to give all governments any technical support needed to achieve the recommendations delineated herein. I wish for my brothers and sisters with disabilities in the Caribbean, all the best during this special and significant day of celebrations. Disability does not mean inability.
IDPD statement Ms. Jessica Jacobie, past UWI and SLDD student
Title: “United in Action: Empowering Persons with Disabilities towards Sustainable Development”
As we mark the annual UN International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd, 2023, the theme “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities” resonates profoundly. I, Jessica Jacobie, a dedicated Disability Rights Advocate from Saint Lucia, take this opportunity to shed light on the crucial intersection of disability rights and the UN SDGs.
The UN Sustainable Development Goals and Persons with Disabilities:
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serve as a blueprint for a better and more sustainable future for all. Explicitly recognizing the rights and needs of persons with disabilities, several SDGs and their targets directly address our community. Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) explicitly reference persons with disabilities. These goals emphasize the need for equal opportunities, inclusive education, accessible employment, and societal inclusion.
A Call to Action for Persons with Disabilities: Stand Up, Stand Out:
To my fellow persons with disabilities, I extend a passionate call to action. It’s time to stand up and stand out. Our unique experiences, talents, and perspectives are invaluable assets that contribute to the richness of our society. By embracing our individual strengths, we can challenge societal norms, break down barriers, and pave the way for a more inclusive Saint Lucia.
Organizations: Intensify Advocacy Efforts and Collaborate:
Organizations mandated to serve persons with disabilities hold a significant role in driving positive change. I urge these entities to intensify advocacy efforts and foster collaboration with one another. By uniting our voices, sharing resources, and amplifying our impact, we can address systemic issues and create an environment that champions the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
Challenging Government for Inclusive Conversations:
Our government is a key player in the realization of inclusive policies. I challenge the government of Saint Lucia to consistently include persons with disabilities in national conversations and development plans. Our insights and experiences are invaluable in crafting policies that address the diverse needs of our community. Let us work collaboratively towards ensuring that our voices are not only heard but actively considered in the pursuit of the SDGs.
Implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities:
The ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by Saint Lucia in 2020 marked a significant commitment. However, ratification must now be met with action. I implore our government to implement the provisions of the convention actively, ensuring that the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are upheld in every facet of our society.
In conclusion, let this International Day for Persons with Disabilities be a catalyst for united action. Together, as a collective force, we can rescue opportunities, achieve the SDGs, and contribute to building a more inclusive and sustainable Saint Lucia.
Miss Jessica Jacobie
Disability Rights Advocate
Saint Lucia
Orientation for Students with Disabilities and Medical Conditions
An interactive, educational and awareness programme geared towards providing essential information to newly registered students with disabilities:
- To heighten the awareness of students with disabilities about the operations and services of Student Life and Development
- To provide support to newly registered students with disabilities through information sharing.
Past Events
2021
Basic Sign Language Graduation 2014
A graduation ceremony for the Basic Sign Language Class, which was conducted by SLDD from January - May 2014 under the auspices of the Human Resources Division was held at School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Eric Williams Sciences Complex, Mount Hope on Thursday 12th June, 2014 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. The SLDD along with the School of Dentistry wishes to thank all who were present to share in this auspicious moment with them.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities Nov-Dec 2013
In commemoration of the United Nations International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2013, the Student Life and Development Department hosted a Public Lecture on Thursday 28th November at the Noor Hassanali Auditorium, Faculty of Law. Speakers and presenters included Ms. Jacqueline Huggins, Coordinator, Student Life and Development Department, Professor Rhoda Reddock, Deputy Campus Principal, Mr. Richard Saunders, Campus Registrar and Professor Rose-Marie Antoine, Dean, Faculty of Law.
Under the distinguished patronage of their Excellencies, the Honourable Anthony Carmona and Mrs. Reema Carmona, the feature speaker was The Honourable Senator Kerryann Ifill, President of the Senate, Barbados. Senator Ifill focused her speech on International Day for Persons with Disabilities 2013 theme "Break barriers, open doors: for an inclusive society for all". She stressed the importance for society to understand that it is not the disability that is the issue but rather the accommodations that need to be put in place to ensure equality for all.
Also in attendance was The Honourable Wade Mark, MP; leaders of local NGO's, members of the Campus along with various members of the public.
The Unit also hosted an Open House on Tuesday 3rd December which provided relevant information on the issues of disability with emphasis on the work of SLDD.
The staff of SLDD would like to thank all of our sponsors and volunteers who contributed in making our event a success.
Basic Sign Language Graduation 2013
The graduation ceremony for the Basic Sign Language Class, which was conducted by SLDD from March – July, 2013 under the auspices of the Human Resources Division was held at the Faculty of Social Sciences Lounge on Monday 23rd September, 2013 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
UWI Life and Guild Fest 2013
SLDD recently participated in these two events in order to inform the student population of what services we offer to them.
Mobility Training
The Student Life and Development Department (SLDD), in collaboration with Persons Associated with Visual Impairment (PAVI) has launced its Mobility Training Program. The training commenced on 22nd August,2013 with Fulbright Scholar, Ms. Alexandra Futty whereby the Rehabilitation Officer has taken her aound campus to key areas where she will be frequenting.
Basic Sign Language Course 2013
A course in Sign Language commenced at the UWI, St. Augustine Campus from Tuesday 29th January, 2013. This course ran till the 30th July, 2013 and participants included staff memebers form Bursary (Student Section), SLDD and Office of the Deputy Principal. It was taught by Ms. Nadine Ellis under the auspices of the Human Resources Department
Participation at Health Fair hosted by Guild of Students
On Thursday March 15th, 2012 SLDD participated in a health fair hosted by the campus' Guild of Students.
Basic Sign Language Course 2012
a course in Sign Language was commenced at the School of Dentistry, Dental Hygine Laboratory from Thursday 15th March, 2012. This course ran for fifteen (15) weeks and participants included staff and students who work directly with special needs clients. It was taught by Ms. Nadine Ellis under the auspices of the Human Resources Department.
Orientation Workshop 2011
In preparation for Orientation 2011, SLDD held a training workshop for volunteers on 26th August 2011 at the Learning Resource Centre (LRC). The session aimed to build awareness of the work of SLDD and the population it serves. Some participants at this workshop will assist at SLDD's informational booth at Orientation week.
UWI Life and Orientation Village 2011
SLDD recently participated in these two events in order to inform the student population of what services we offer to them.
Handing over ceremony for SLDD registered student Einstein Bodden
On October 25th 2011, The University of the West Indies handed over the sum of TT$50,000 which will go towards the purchase of an appropriate wheelchair for Medical Student, Einstein Bodden who is about to begin his clinicals.
This is the culmination of fund raising efforts begun by the University and driven by members of the Belizean community, spear headed by Mr. Thomas Chanona and his staff.
Invigilation Workshop 2011
SLDD hosted its invigilation workshop to train the Department's registered invigilator's on the correct procedures that should be followed for the supervision of students during examinations. This workshop took place on Friday 18th December, 2011.
United Nations' International Day of Persons with Disabilities - Dec. 3rd
The Student Life and Development Department (SLDD), in collaboration with the School of Education's Masters in Education Programme, commemorated the United Nations' International Day of Persons with Disabilities with an informational booth at the Faculty of Humanities and Education Undercroft on December 2nd, 2011. There was also a display themed 'Disability and Postsecondary Education', with a focus on disabilities experienced at our Campus at The Alma Jordan Library from December 3rd to 9th.
Basic Sign Language Course 2011
The Human Resources Department at the UWI, St. Augustine Campus in collaboration with SLDD, recently offered a Basic Sign Language course to the campus' staff members. The course began on September 12th, 2011 and ended December 7th, 2011. A graduation ceremony was held for the participants of the course on January 25th, 2012. The basic sign language course is offered to staff members every semester. Click here for more information on the programme.
