The Ghana Federation of Disability Organisations (GFD) will commemorate the 2025 National Day for Persons with Disabilities on Monday, June 23, under the theme “Advancing Inclusive Education for All.”

The event aims to highlight the urgent need for accessible, equitable education for persons with disabilities across Ghana.

As part of the celebration, GFD will also launch its maiden edition of the GFD Honours Event, themed “Celebrating Impact and Promoting Inclusion.”

The awards ceremony will recognise individuals, institutions, media partners, youth advocates, and businesses that have significantly contributed to disability rights and inclusive development.

The ceremony, to be held at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana, is expected to bring together key stakeholders including policymakers, education leaders, disability advocates, and international partners.

Despite the existence of national policies promoting equal access to education, systemic challenges continue to prevent many children and adults with disabilities from fully participating in the educational system.

Data from the Ghana Statistical Service indicates that over 2.1 million Ghanaians live with disabilities.

Of this number, nearly 20% have never attended school, and only 64% are currently enrolled, compared to an 81% enrolment rate among children without disabilities.

The statistics are even more concerning for children with physical disabilities, with about 40% remaining out of school.

This year’s observance is therefore not only a celebration but also a call to action to bridge these disparities and promote policies that ensure inclusive, quality education for all.

GFD received over 70 nominations across 15 award categories, ranging from youth advocacy to institutional excellence.

A dedicated review committee conducted a rigorous selection process to identify this year’s honorees, who will be recognised during the event.

The occasion will feature cultural performances, poetry, and artistic contributions by persons with disabilities, showcasing their talents and reinforcing the importance of inclusion in all areas of national life.

Guest of Honour: H.E. Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo, Spanish Ambassador to Ghana

Keynote Speaker: Hon. Dr. Haruna Iddrisu, Minister for Education

In a statement signed by GFD National President Joseph Atsu Homadzi, the Federation emphasised that the 2025 celebration would serve as a powerful platform to amplify voices within the disability community and drive transformative change in the education sector.