REMARKS BY PRESIDENT ROBINSON ON VISIT TO CHESHIRE HOME FOR DISABLED GIRLS, 28TH SEPTEMBER, 1994
REMARKS BY PRESIDENT ROBINSON ON VISIT TO CHESHIRE HOME FOR DISABLED GIRLS, 28TH SEPTEMBER, 1994
- I would like to thank the Management Board of the Cheshire Home, and especially the staff and students, for the invitation to visit Ndola (pronounced "endola") and your impressive facility.
- I am very aware of the importance of the Copperbelt in the economic history and development of Zambia. I am delighted to be here.
- My special thanks go to the students for welcoming me so warmly into your midst and for giving me an insight into your lives and work.
- As I walked around, I was struck by the dedication and commitment to excellence which is evident among the management and staff here at the Cheshire Home. In the eight years since you moved to these premises you have created a little oasis of empowerment for the students here. I am also aware that this is just one of a number of similar facilities throughout Zambia which have been established by Cheshire Homes.
- The care which a society demonstrates for people with disabilities is a clear measure of the values which go right to the core of that society. The Ndola Community has demonstrated this admirably by its continuing support for this Centre. Communities can be a real force for change at the local level and I am very encouraged at the dynamism of the individuals and organisations which provide support to the Home.
- The role that women can play in all aspects of social, cultural and economic life is increasingly being recognised and valued. By empowering women important and positive productive forces can be unleashed. In many parts of the developing world women already make major contributions in the sphere of agriculture and in the informal sector. These are in addition to important tasks which they carry out in the home and with their children. However, women, as well as men, have key roles to play in formulating policies, devising new strategies for meaningful development and realising a new vision for change in the world.
- The students of the Cheshire Home have embarked upon an important journey of self-fulfilment. I commend the emphasis that is placed on home visits to ensure that contact is not lost with friends and family. For most of the students, their stay here is but a preparation for playing a productive and personally satisfying role in their respective communities. I wish each and every one of you every success and happiness.
- It is an honour for Irish Aid to have been able to make a contribution to the fine work at the Home. And I am very pleased to officially open the new wing..........