The national launch of the Practical Guide for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Community Life took place at the Auditorium of the National Museum of Anthropology Dr. David J. Guzmán (MUNA) in San Salvador.
The guide was developed under the framework of the “PODER: Program for Occupational Inclusion, Advocacy for the Right to Education, and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities” project, funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) with an allocation of €1.7 million.
The three-year PODER project directly benefits 2,252 individuals, 52% of whom are women, involving four organizations representing persons with disabilities across four districts (Santo Tomás, Santiago Texacuangos, Colón, and Zaragoza). The initiative is coordinated by five partners: EducAid, Universidad Centroamericana José Simeon Cañas, Fundación Red de Sobrevivientes, PuntoSud, and the Italian Disability and Development Network (RIDS).
PODER focuses on three main pillars:
- Strengthening advocacy for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and their organizations.
- Supporting professional training for PWDs.
- Reducing physical barriers in schools and public buildings through light infrastructure projects.
“Italy has a long-standing and steadfast commitment to supporting persons with disabilities,” stated Paolo Emanuele Rozo Sordini, Ambassador of Italy. “An integral approach to disability is central to Italian Cooperation, as evidenced by the work of EducAid and partner organizations, who today present this significant Guide.”
The guide was created through a participatory process involving project partners, government institutions, civil society organizations, disability rights advocates, community leaders with disabilities, and family members/caregivers of persons with disabilities.
“The guide provides a set of principles, criteria, and minimum standards designed to serve as a reference for addressing the needs, aspirations, and demands of persons with disabilities through practical solutions,” emphasized Paolo Gallizioli, Director of AICS San Salvador.
The launch event highlights Italy’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive society and advancing the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
