The international White Cane Safety Day national ceremony -2023 was organized by the Ministry of Women, Child Affairs and Social Empowerment, Department of Social Services together with the visually handicapped rehabilitation trust fund.

It was held on the 17th of October under the theme “With the White Cane, Overcoming Obstacles” at the main auditorium,11th floor of the 2nd stage Sethsiripaya under the distinguished patronage of Hon. Anupa Pasqual, State minister of Social Empowerment.

The heads and officers of each ministry department, including Mrs. Yamuna Perera, the Secretary of the Ministry of Woman, Child Affairs, and Social Empowerment participated in this event.

There were events to enjoy and appreciate the musical talents of visually impaired people. The Department of Social Services had invited those who were already empowered with their own strength and skills without their visual impairment being a hindrance. They pointed out the importance of counseling to empower society.

On his speech, Hon. Anupa Pasqual stated, “We cannot ignore the visually impaired people in Sri Lanka. What they need to live as other citizens is not sympathy but to identify their talents and skill sets and give strength, power, Education, necessary equipment, and aid to enhance their skills.”

He also stated “It should be specially mentioned that as a ministry our goal should be to provide protection to the disabled groups that need protection to ensure their safety. While doing that, we should focus on identifying and empowering the disabled people who are full of talents & skill sets to turn them into entrepreneurs this country needs.”