University of Split’s Office for Counseling and Support marked the first National Day of Persons with Physical Disabilities, on May 12th at Spinit incubator, emphasizing "invisible" disabilities and connecting their challenges with experiences of persons with visible physical disabilities.
- I am proud of what University of Split accomplished when it comes to including and supporting persons with disabilities. A society is not rich in terms of its GDP, but in terms of how much empathy it shows towards vulnerable groups, and persons with disabilities certainly are one such group. At the same time, we can all learn a lot from them. The way they deal with their disability is a lesson for all of us about life, courage and the joy of living. They show us how limited the human body can be, but also that the human spirit knows no limits - Nikola Koceić-Bilan said.
Ivan Bogdanović also addressed the gathering, saying that all University of Split’s components are now architecturally accessible, and when it comes to literature for blind and visually impaired students, they have been successfully collaborating with association Zamisli and Ministry of Science on projects to adapt teaching materials.
- We are encouraging our students to be involved in the work of civil society organizations and to participate as much as possible in community life together with their peers. We try to encourage them to make a difference in society and break down barriers set in front of them - Bogdanović said.
County Prefect Blaženko Boban also congratulated to all persons with disabilities on their day.
- Persons with disabilities have the right to play sports, to work, to live an active and fulfilling life, just like other citizens. That is why we are working hard on making public spaces and facilities accessible, because inclusion cannot only be declarative, but real and everyday - Boban said.
Persons with disabilities are the most numerous minority in the Republic of Croatia (around 17%) and face discrimination in various areas of life. People whose disabilities aren’t obvious experience double discrimination, because society does not recognize their challenges and often considers them people seeking attention, not used to working hard.
