The Social Aid and Advocacy Program (SAAP) recently hosted a professional development workshop titled “Empowering Change: Understanding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.” This initiative aimed to deepen understanding of these critical principles and explore strategies to enhance the participation of differently-abled individuals in everyday life. The workshop saw active participation from representatives of the Disabled Welfare Association (DWA) and the Association of the Physically Handicapped Adults (APHA).
The workshop, facilitated by Sohail Muhammad Ali, focused on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Participants were engaged in defining these concepts, exploring practical examples, and participating in group activities to develop effective inclusion strategies. The discussion highlighted significant barriers faced by persons with disabilities, leading to their exclusion from essential societal benefits and rights, irrespective of their location.
The interactive approach was well-received by attendees. Ghulam Ahmed Mohiuddin, Additional Secretary and Director General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), served as the chief guest. He delivered an insightful address detailing the operations of 62 institutions under the DEPD. He emphasized the Sindh Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act 2018, which established the DEPD to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The DEPD’s responsibilities include overseeing rehabilitation, education, vocational training, developing special education curricula, producing Braille and sign language materials, training educators and rehabilitation professionals, and managing a comprehensive disability database. Farman Ali Tanwari, Regional Director of the DEPD, was also in attendance. Tasneem Abbas Zaidi, Chairperson of SAAP, expressed gratitude to all participants. The event was further honored by the presence of Dr. UmmeRahil, Vice Chairperson of SAAP, SyedaImsaalZehra, Executive Member of SAAP, Javed Malik, Ms. Fatima, Executive Member of SAAP, Ms. NaurinShivji, and Muhammad Ali Sheikh, a distinguished entrepreneur.
