BRAC Bank, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Business and Disability Network (BBDN), supported by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, hosted a national conference titled “EmpowerAbility: Powering Every Ability” to promote disability inclusion and empowerment.
The conference took place at the Bangladesh International Convention Centre (BICC) on December 11, 2024.
As part of BRAC Bank’s flagship Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Aporajeyo Ami, this event aimed to unite diverse stakeholders for meaningful dialogue and develop actionable strategies to enhance disability inclusion across various sectors in Bangladesh.
The conference featured Chief Guest Brig Gen (retd) Dr M. Sakhawat Hussain, Honorable Adviser to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, along with Sabbir Hossain, DMD and Chief Operating Officer of BRAC Bank; Tuomo Poutiainen, Country Director of the ILO; Dr Andreas Kuck, Country Director of GIZ Bangladesh; and Ardashir Kabir, President of the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation, as Special Guests.
Participants came from various sectors, including public and private organisations, NGOs, groups advocating for persons with disabilities, civil society members, development partners, and media representatives.
“Disability inclusion is not just a policy issue; it is a fundamental human right that requires our unwavering attention. Today, we stand at a crucial turning point, with the opportunity to transform our society and ensure that every individual, regardless of their abilities, can achieve their fullest potential,” expressed Dr Sakhawat with deep emotion. “We have a profound responsibility to break down barriers and cultivate a community where everyone can play a meaningful role in the progress of our nation.”
The conference included three panel discussions focused on the lived experiences of persons with disabilities, disability-inclusive skills and employment, and strategies for scaling employment solutions across various sectors.
Panellists included representatives from UNDP Bangladesh, Berger Paints, Bangladesh Wheelchair Sports Foundation, CRP, Urmi Group, Robi Axiata, Sightsavers, Le Meridien Hotels and Resorts, CDD, SME Foundation, and ACI Logistics.
Industry leaders emphasised the need to close the gap between policy and its implementation and the divide between the private sector and development partners to create a more inclusive workforce. They passionately argued that embracing inclusive employment is not just a moral imperative but can also bring significant strategic advantages, ultimately contributing to business success.
Development practitioners called for long-term projects and more substantial government policy support. They believe that with adequate backing, NGOs and other development organisations can engage more deeply in disability inclusion initiatives, fostering genuine and meaningful change throughout the nation.
The EmpowerAbility conference was a powerful platform for promoting change and advancing the empowerment of persons with disabilities in Bangladesh. Accessibility initiatives, such as real-time translation services and Braille schedules, ensured full participation.
BRAC Bank’s CSR mission is to break financial barriers and social taboos, create opportunities, and ensure all individuals can realise their potential and lead meaningful lives. The bank remains committed to fostering a more inclusive society where everyone can contribute, succeed, and live fulfilling lives regardless of their abilities.