Damascus, Dec. 19 (SANA)Syrian officials and experts concluded a two-dayNational Disability Conferencein Damascus on Thursday calling for a comprehensive national strategy for 20262030 and greater mainstreaming of disability issues in public policy.

The conference, titled Empowerment, Inclusion, and Integration and hosted by theMinistry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, recommended activating the National Council for Persons with Disabilities. It also called for training professionals in rehabilitation and creating government employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Participants proposed a national system for professional licensing and continuing education in rehabilitation, a national framework for inclusive education, and programs to promote social and professional integration, including legislative incentives and public awareness campaigns.

Other recommendations included establishing a national disability database, conducting nationwide surveys, amending Decree No. 19 on the rights of persons with disabilities, and restructuring the national disability classification system to meet international standards.

Officials emphasized the importance of disability prevention programs before, during, and after pregnancy, child development initiatives, and barrier-free environments in buildings, transport, and urban planning. They also highlighted the need for a national approach linking mental health, psychosocial support, and inclusion.

The conference, held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of the Presidency, was attended by government officials, academics, and students.