The key challenges we face begin with financial constraints which directly influence the quality of services (Pakistan’s inflation rate is above 11%). Lack of suitable personnel, purpose-built facilities, & support from the government are among other key constraints. A general lack of awareness about disabled people creates barriers in finding jobs for trainees after graduation, sponsors for trainees undergoing treatment, and acceptance of the child’s special needs by family members & the community in general.
KVTC survives by utilizing its available financial & human resources as efficiently as possible. Awareness & Counselling activities such as seminars in schools & job sites, exhibitions, concerts, & talent shows help mobilize resources, while collaborations with other schools/organizations increase opportunities for jobs & learning for trainees as well as staff development. These activities are monitored & evaluated by qualified professionals through progress & annual reports.
KVTC was the first in Pakistan to have internship & job placement programs for intellectually challenged people by promoting inclusiveness with both local & multinational companies. We have encouraged & provided guidance for businesses to formally introduce & implement disability policies.
KVTC Plays its Part:
Many trainees, whose parents/guardians cannot afford it, are making reduced (lowest amount being Rs.800 a month), halved, or even no contribution at all, which obviously makes the gap between our income & expenditure per trainee larger & harder to cope with. All of the patients in our external outreach programs are treated free of charge.
World Scenario
People with disabilities are highly over-represented among the poor; about 82% of them live below the poverty line. Poverty is considered both a cause and a consequence of disability. Poverty is a cause of disability since the poor often lack resources to prevent malnutrition, and do not have access to adequate health services that may prevent some disabilities. Poverty is a consequence of disability since people with disabilities often lack access to education, health services and income-generating activities; they are often denied their human, social and economic rights. These factors contribute to high levels of vulnerability and exclusion.
Key Challenges & How We Cope With Them!