PHNOM PENH: The Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics celebrated its 30th anniversary on November 22, where Minister of Social Affairs Chea Somethy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensure that persons with disabilities (PWD) have a good quality of life, and are actively able to participate equally in a society that respects rights, dignity, and the inclusion of all in the nation’s development.

The Minister said that the technical training on the production of prostheses plays an important role at rehabilitation centers and that the Ministry of Social Affairs has been implementing a five-year strategic plan (2019-2023), considering disability work and rehabilitation for PWD as one of seven priority tasks. These priorities are being implemented by the Disability Action Council, the Disability Fund and the Department of Disability Welfare.

He also said that the Ministry of Social Affairs has provided opportunities for PWD to have equal access to social services and quality public service in order to improve their rights and quality of life. He encouraged PWD to participate in politics and the public and private sector so that they can provide information on development plans at the national and regional levels.

Minister Chea Somethy called on all partners to contribute toward a common goal of ensuring the effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of rehabilitation programs for people with disabilities and to continue supporting prosthetic technician training.