Inclusive economy: public, private sector commitment recognized

The Motivation Charitable Trust (MCT), UK through the Sri Lanka Foundation for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled (SLFRD – Colombo) together with four partner organizations Jaffna Jaipur Centre for Disability Rehabilitation (JJCDR), Centre for Handicapped (CFH) Kandy, Navajeevana Tangalle and Organization for the Rehabilitation of the Handicapped (ORHAN) Vavuniya recognized over 80 Public and Private sector companies for their commitment towards building an inclusive workforce at an awards ceremony held at the BMICH.

The event was graced by Chief Guest Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena –Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Guest of honour, Ajith Nivard Cabraal The Governor of Sri Lanka's Central Bank. More than 1000 disable individuals were provided with employment in over 80 organizations further enabling a society of inclusion. The organizers awarded 8 Gold, 20 Silver, 11 Bronze Awards and 29 plaques to the public and private companies, honouring the commitment and contribution made for an inclusive society.

The project funded by the United States International Agency for International Development (USAID), address the cycle of poverty and disability and the extreme exclusion of people with disabilities by mainstreaming these individuals into formal employment, vocational training and microfinance services. Sqn. Ldr. Cyril Siriwardana – Project Manager ESSP reiterated, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Sri Lanka’s Public and private sector companies who have come forth offering employment to a community which has being neglected over the time.”

SLFRD with the four partners was involved with the preliminary assessments and training provided throughout the implementation phase to the end.

The initial assessment included encouraging employers, physical accessibility of the enterprise, the change of company policies to include disability friendly policies, changing attitude of other workforce and thought process were taken in to consideration. Necessary training and skills development programs were also organized further empowering the individuals as well as the employers.

ESSP took a twin-track approach in the formal and informal sector, providing training to both local businesses and people with disabilities themselves.

This approach is vital to ensure that people with disabilities are ready for employment and local employers are equipped with inclusive practices to ensure people with disabilities are included on an equal basis.