President vows to eliminate barriers and ensure equal opportunities for persons with disabilities

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to addressing the systemic challenges faced by persons with disabilities, pledging to clear obstacles and foster a more inclusive society across the Maldives.

The President made the remarks during this week’s interactive "Rayyithunge Adu" programme, where he directly engaged with public concerns. Stressing that the empowerment and inclusion of individuals with special needs remain a top national priority, President Muizzu assured the public that his administration is actively formulating community-wide solutions.

"I will address all the points you have raised. I want things to be facilitated as best and as quickly as possible, in a manner that benefits not just a specific child, but the entire community,” President Muizzu said.

The presidential pledge came in response to a heartfelt testimony from Fathimath Fairooza Adam, Secretary General and National Director of Special Olympics, and the parent of a child with Down syndrome. Speaking on the programme, Fairooza detailed the harrowing discrimination and barriers she and her child encountered within the education system—including school admission denials at a very young age.

Fairooza highlighted critical structural deficiencies, such as overcrowded classrooms managed by a single educator, which prevent children with special needs from receiving necessary individual attention. She also drew attention to ongoing hurdles in securing adequate housing, specialised therapy services, and equitable backing for sports initiatives—noting a stark disparity in support between the Special Olympics and mainstream sports.

Emphasising the needs of the 24,401 individuals with special needs recorded in the 2022 Census—3.2 percent of whom live with intellectual disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, and ADHD—Fairooza stressed the urgent need for sustainable, non-discriminatory programmes in education, sports, and daily life.

In response, President Muizzu assured that the government is fully committed to resolving these systemic difficulties. The government has continued to underscore that ensuring equal opportunities, robust legal protection, preserved dignity, and a supportive environment for persons with disabilities remains fundamental to achieving true social equality in the Maldives.