Recently at the Beijing Demonstration Center of Service for Persons with Disabilities, Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, joined Spain’s Queen Letizia to witness empowering initiatives that are reshaping lives.
Crafting Independence: The Beauty Workshops
At the heart of China’s efforts, the “Beauty Workshops” initiative offers women living with disabilities flexible, home-based work in handicrafts. By the end of 2024, over 12,000 women had begun earning from home and 3,300 secured institutional employment, boosting annual incomes by an average of 15,800 yuan ($2,220).
Skills in Action: Education and Rehabilitation
Children and youth are also benefiting from expanded education and rehabilitation services. In a recent center visit, children with visual disabilities performed “Songs and Smiles.” Across the country, 12,500 students enrolled in special education high schools, 26,900 joined vocational programs, and over 30,000 pursued higher education—including nearly 2,000 postgraduates—by the end of 2024.
Tech Bridging the Digital Divide
China is harnessing technology to boost accessibility. More than 3,000 websites and mobile apps now feature enhanced accessibility, while innovations like brain–computer interfaces, speech-recognition systems for children with cerebral palsy, and AI-assisted rehabilitation for autism are transforming daily life.
Strength in Global Partnership
China’s collaboration with international partners, including the EU and countries along the Belt and Road, underscores a shared commitment to inclusion. So far this year, experts have trained over 300 prosthetics technicians and caregivers in Southeast Asia and donated hearing aids and assistive devices. Hosting international forums and training programs, China is “teaching a man to fish” by sharing skills and experiences.
Through social initiatives, assistive technologies, and global cooperation, China is cultivating resilience, creativity, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
