Call to transform the disabled into wealth by utilising their talents

People with disabilities can become human resources If their talents are utilised properly without taking a different attitude towards them, said participants in a webinar on Tuesday. 

And if this can be implemented properly, there will be no more negative attitude towards them in society, they said.

Bangladesh Business and Disability Network (BBDN) and Chattogram Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) jointly organised the discussion on "Disability Inclusive Skills & Employment Opportunities in the Private Sector". 

Deputy Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury spoke as the chief guest at the programme moderated by BBDN Head of Operation Aziza Ahmed.

The BBDN, which is made up of business associations, non-governmental organisations and people with disabilities, helps people with disabilities find decent jobs and employers find interested candidates.

Mohibul said, "We still have different attitudes towards common people and the disabled in our society. Our government has taken various steps to overcome that.

"But, this problem cannot be solved by policy alone. For this, first of all, the social barrier has to be removed. And this education must be imparted to everyone from families."

CCCI President Mahabubul Alam said, "First of all we should keep in mind that people with disabilities are also human beings. We must have a positive attitude towards them. But they have also created examples that they can play a role in the development of the country like other people in society."

Leonard Cheshire Bangladesh Country Representative Zahir Bin Siddique said, "Women with disabilities, in particular, are facing many adversities for unequal opportunities and assistance in entering the job market in Bangladesh. Overcoming this obstacle is a big challenge.

BBDN Chief Executive Officer Murteza Rafi Khan highlighted the overview of the organisation of the programme.  

Vashkar Bhattachearjee, national consultant for accessibility of the government-run Access to Information (a2i) Programme.

BBDN Chairman Salahuddin Kasem Khan said, "If we can utilise the people with disabilities across the country, I believe they can play a role in achieving 1% of GDP. For this, private and government organisations have to work together."

Sadaf Saaz Siddiqi, a trustee and the chair of the BBDN board delivered the closing remarks and vote of thanks at the programme.