Employment for 10,000 differently-abled youth

by Ananda KANNANGARA

The Public Administration Ministry will launch a program to provide employment for over 10,000 educated, differently-abled youth in the country commencing January 1, 2012 on the directive of Public Administration Minister W.D.J. Seneviratne.

Minister Seneviratne told the Sunday Observer that of the 20 million Sri Lankans, nearly five percent are physically and mentally retarded. Some of these deaf, dumb and blind people and a few others with minor disabilities could be provided employment under this program. The Minister paid special attention to youth from the Security Forces who became disabled due to the 30-year terrorism and said although they are entitled to their usual pension benefits, the Government has also commenced programs to rehabilitate them and encourage them to be partners in future development programs.