Mission to the Kingdom of Bhutan
22 - 26 August 2004
Institute of Traditional Medicine Services (ITMS)
A mission to the Kingdom of Bhutan was undertaken by APCD from 22-26 August 2004. Official visits were made to the Ministry of Labour and Human Resources, the Medical Education Division of the Ministry of Health, the Department of Public Health of the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education (develop the national education strategy, called "The Vision 2020" and promotes inclusive education).
The mission also visited the following disability-related organizations:
Ministry of Labour and Human Resources
- Physiotherapy Department, Jigme Dorgi Wangchuk National Referral Hospital, which is a Center for physiotherapy in Bhutan providing free services with sufficient equipment.
- Center for Special Children-Draktsho Vocational Training Center for Disabled, which is a non-profit organization aiming to mainstream persons with disabilities in society. Activities provided enhance the independent livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities, but especially focuses on children and youth through vocational skills' training.
- Institute of Traditional Medicine Services (ITMS) promotes a traditional system of medicine and preserves the unique culture and tradition related to medical practice. ITMS provides job opportunities for persons with disabilities in the Institute.
- Changangkha Lower Secondary School applies inclusive education and ensures that children with special needs have access to basic education.
- Gidakom Hospital is planning to be a resource and provide rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities.
- Paro District Hospital promotes community-based rehabilitation projects.
- Deaf Education Unit is an inclusive school for hearing impaired students.
