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Jamaica is far ahead of its regional counterparts in supporting children with disabilities, according to Mohammed Mohiuddin, deputy representative for UNICEF Jamaica.

Speaking at the Early Stimulation Programme (ESP) graduation on Wednesday, Mohiuddin praised the island for setting an example across Latin America and the Caribbean.

"UNICEF is present in the Caribbean region and also in Latin America, but I have seen [that] Jamaica is far, far ahead of other countries. So Jamaica can be the leader for the other Latin American and Caribbean countries ... to share this experience with other countries, and Jamaica should feel proud of this success," Mohiuddin said.

According to Jamaica's Economic and Social Survey Jamaica 2024, 14,627 persons with disabilities were registered with the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities. This represents 36.3 per cent of the 40,345 applicants. Of the registrants, 37 per cent have a physical disability which is the largest recorded type of disability in Jamaica. The second largest category is intellectual disability, which accounted for 18 per cent.

Mohiuddin noted UNICEF's partnership with the Government, including technical and financial support to improve the social protection system.

The ceremony, held at the Apostolic Church of Jamaica, Bethel Temple, in Kingston, marked a milestone for 74 children with intellectual and physical disabilities, who will move on to the formal education system. Of this number, 56 will enter primary special-education institutions, while 18 will integrate into the regular school system.

Dr Norman Dunn, minister of state in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, described the graduation as an annual highlight.

"Each year I look forward to this graduation because when you see these children, and especially hear the stories about where they're coming from and their journey through the system, you will be proud. Graduating shows the tremendous transformation that has taken place. It is heartwarming in every single way," Dunn said.

Responding to concerns about employment for persons with disabilities, Dunn pointed to success stories such as Nathaniel Bailey, a graduate of the ESP and guest speaker for this year's ceremony, who has been fully embraced by his school community.

"Although he's now at university, he had integrated himself so much in the family and the fabric of JC (Jamaica College) that he was never ever looked on as a person with disability," Dunn explained. He added that the ministry has "ramped up our assimilation of our children with disabilities, because our mantra is 'leave no one behind'."

He encouraged parents to look past the stigma when it comes to seeking help for their children.

"No taboo; no, no duppy story; no nothing must prevent you from giving that child [the best], because you do not know how that child's gonna turn out. Disabilities are not a limiting factor," Dunn said.