03 December 2025 | State House.
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we stand united as a government in our commitment to building a society where every individual’s dignity, potential, and rights are recognized and upheld.
Today, we join the global community in honoring this special group of people with unique abilities. We observe this day as a time for reflection, understanding, and reaffirming our collective responsibility to foster inclusive societies where everyone can thrive.
Throughout our history, persons with disabilities have occupied an integral place in our society. They are resilient individuals who, despite facing challenges, continue to make significant contributions to our communities, economy, and cultural fabric. Their strength, talents, and determination serve as a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity.
Thanks to the dedicated social infrastructure established by the government, persons with disabilities have received numerous privileges and support mechanisms that empower them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. These include access to specialized healthcare services, inclusive education programmes, and vocational training opportunities that nurture their talents and enhance their skills. Our public policies have also prioritized accessible infrastructure, ensuring that transportation, public facilities, and public spaces are more inclusive and accommodating.
Furthermore, we have implemented legal frameworks and social programmes that promote equal rights and protect against discrimination, reinforcing our commitment to an inclusive society. Through dedicated grants, financial assistance, and community-based support networks, we aim to provide persons with disabilities the tools they need to fully participate in all aspects of life.
These privileges and support systems are not merely benefits; they are investments in our shared future, reflecting our belief that every Seychellois, regardless of ability, deserves dignity, respect, and equal opportunity. As we continue to advance these initiatives, we reaffirm our dedication to creating a society where inclusion is not just an aspiration but a reality for all.
While we acknowledge the progress achieved so far, we also recognize that there is more work to be done. We will continue listening to the needs and expectations of persons living with disabilities, as well as their families and support networks. Our goal is not only to provide assistance but also to foster an environment where they are empowered to participate as equal citizens, with dignity and autonomy. This includes ongoing efforts to improve public transportation, expand access to financing, strengthen healthcare services, and enhance overall livelihood opportunities.
As a nation committed to progress and inclusion, let us reflect on how each of us can contribute to fostering disability-inclusive societies, ones that advance social progress, where every individual is valued, empowered, and given the opportunity to thrive. Guided by the theme “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress”, we can build a more compassionate and equitable Seychelles, one where no one is left behind.
