Syed Atik, Gazipur: “Persons with disabilities are not a burden on society. With proper training and opportunities, they can become skilled human resources. The government is working to empower them. We want persons with disabilities to stand tall in society on their own merit,” said Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Secretary of the Ministry of Social Welfare.He made the remarks on Thursday while addressing a program as chief guest at Maitree Shilpa factory in Tongi, Gazipur city. The event included a factory visit and the distribution of appointment letters, artificial limbs, and assistive devices.“Today’s distribution of appointment letters and high-tech artificial limbs is not just a formality. It is a significant milestone on the path to self-reliance for persons with disabilities,” the secretary added.During the program, appointment letters for jobs at various organizations were handed over to 22 persons with disabilities. Later, 19 beneficiaries received free high-tech artificial legs. In addition, smart white canes were distributed to six visually impaired persons and Braille books to two others.The event was chaired by Shah Mohammad Mahbub, Director General (Additional Secretary) of the Department of Social Services. Special guests included Gazipur Deputy Commissioner Md. Nurul Karim Bhuiyan, Maitree Shilpa Executive Director (Deputy Secretary) Md. Barkatur Rahman, and ERCPH Deputy Director Md. Fakhrul Alam.Also present were Mohammad Abdul Alim, Assistant Director and Production Manager (in-charge) of the Artificial Limb Production Center, Manager Mostafa Ikhtiar Uddin, Assistant Director Selina Sharmin, and Assistant Manager Mosammat Rabeya Khatun, among others.