Zubair Qureshi
Speakers while addressing a National Disability Convention titled “Beyond Barriers: Persons with Disabilities at the Workplace” discussed in details the existing disability laws in Pakistan, implications for organizations in the public and private sectors, and the role and functions of councils for the Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
The convention was organized by the Centre for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI). It was discussed that the current scenario of job opportunities for the PWDs was not supportive as the government was not implementing these laws in letter and spirit.
An important feature of the convention was the “Job Fair” where Disabled Persons Organizations (DPOs) set up stalls to showcase how individuals with various disabilities were actively engaged in the workforce. This practical demonstration served as a testament to the capabilities and contributions of PWDs, showcasing their potential in different roles and industries.
The convention was held in the backdrop of the unprecedented developments in assistive technology and changing job dynamics, which have opened up new avenues for PWDs to earn their livelihoods on equal terms with others.
Executive Director CPDI, Mukhtar Ahmad Ali, while welcoming the participants said, the existing disability laws, both at the federal and provincial levels, mandated the inclusion of a certain percentage of PWDs in the workforce.
Issues such as rights and opportunities available for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) at the workplace were also discussed and the speakers explored the disability laws in Pakistan and their implications for organizations, showcase the potential of PWDs in innovative fields and the impact of assistive technology, and promote inclusivity in the workforce and facilitate equal employment opportunities for PWDs.”
“These laws mandate inclusion of a specific percentage of PWDs in the workforce. Non-compliance obligates organizations to make equivalent contributions to councils established under these laws, which work to protect and promote the rights of PWDs. Mr. MuddasirRiazMalak, Director General, Social Welfare Department, Punjab said there was no law before 2021 in Punjab about PWDs and it was legislated in 2022 after rights-based forward looking struggle by the civil society groups specially Ms. Sana Khurshid. “However, public infrastructure must be adjusted to suit the special needs of PWDs, and we have established a portal to provide assisting devices for the PWDs”, he emphasized.
ManzoorMaseeh, Member (Minority) National Commission on Human Rights, stressed the need to focus on employability and employment opportunities for the PWDs. “Rules making and implementation both are important to protect the rights of people with disabilities. In addition, transfer postings have to be taken care of for PWDs”, he added.
