KFOR CELEBRATES THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Pristina, Kosovo. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was celebrated at the Resource Center for Teaching and Counselling Perparimi, Pristina. Since 1992 the United Nations has promoted the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with the aim of promoting awareness and understanding of people with disabilities.

This year the Italian Contingent KFOR partnered with OPFAKKOS, Parents Association of Children with Disabilities of Kosovo, for the celebrations at the Perparimi Center. There were several local politicians and officials present including Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Mr. Arsim Bajrami, and Member of Parliament, Ms. Njomza Emini.

Students at Perparimi Center were joined by students from other schools from around Kosovo to celebrate the day. A large crowd gathered in the modern facilities of the school to be entertained by the students. The auditorium was buzzing with excitement as the performances got under way.

After the entertainment, over 200 children were presented with gifts from the Italian Commander of Joint Regional Detachment Centre, Colonel Mela, and other members of the Italian Contingent. Each of more than 500 gift packages was comprised of drawing kit, plasticine, colored pencils and drawing books, funded and prepared by members of the Italian Contingent.

KFOR’s involvement in the celebration was fully appreciated by political representatives, OPFAKKOS, staff at Perparimi and was particularly welcome by the students. Their appreciation to the Italian Contingent was expressed in a "Thank You” card that was presented to Colonel Mela on behalf of the children. This celebration was a pleasant opportunity for people with disabilities to meet and talk to KFOR troops.