More funding proposed for persons with disabilities in 2027
The Financial Secretary told the budget forum that the envelope for the ministry responsible for disabilities will increase next year.
BASSETERRE, St Kitts. The Ministry of Finance has proposed increased funding for the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing and Disabilities in the 2027 budget, the National Budget Forum has heard.
Financial Secretary Carlton Pogson announced the increase at the forum at the St Kitts Marriott Resort on Tuesday, although no figure was given.
"They (persons with disabilities) have value to add," Mr Pogson said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development Azilla Clarke said support for graduates of the Cotton-Thomas Comprehensive School is under review, and that one graduate recently received scholarship assistance. Students at the school can access uniforms and textbooks in the same way as students in other schools, she said.
The country's first National Disability Policy was laid in the National Assembly in May, with a five-year action plan running from 2026 to 2030. Mrs Clarke said the ministry is working with public and private sector agencies to put the plan into practice.
She urged persons with disabilities to register with the ministry so they can access the support services available.
