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Three-year project promotes inclusive employment in Cambodia

In a significant stride towards fostering inclusive employment, the "Towards Inclusive Employment for People with Disabilities" project, co-implemented by People in Need Cambodia and Agile Development Group, marked its impactful conclusion on November 21st, 2023. Funded by Česká rozvojová agentura - CzechAid, this three-year initiative aimed to break barriers and create equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
 

The project's success was celebrated during a wrap-up event attended by esteemed guests, including His Excellency Em Chan Makara, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation. The event featured discussions on best practices and success stories in inclusive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and employment.

Throughout the project's duration, a series of workshops were organized, each focusing on ensuring the inclusion of people living with disabilities in the workplace. The workshops brought together representatives from various companies and institutions, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for exchanging perspectives on disability.

A recurring theme in these workshops was the concept of "Ability Over Disability." Participants engaged in discussions aimed at encouraging employers to shift their focus towards recognizing the abilities and values of people with disabilities rather than fixating on perceived limitations. Representatives from companies such as M'Lop Tapang, Sunway Hotel Phnom Penh, Kakcent, Factory Phnom Penh, Fly Phnom Penh, Exceed Worldwide Modern Services Clinic Cambodia, Kiripost, and GIZ Cambodia actively participated, reflecting a positive shift in mindset within both private and public sectors. One noteworthy workshop took place at MATATA Farm and Bamnak Eco Park, where participants displayed a solid understanding of inclusion concepts. Practical examples of simple inclusion strategies were shared, emphasizing the benefits and challenges of implementation.

The wrap-up event on November 21st served as a platform to reflect on the achievements of the project. A panel discussion on sharing best practices and success stories underscored the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including people with disabilities, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, disability social enterprises, and private companies. The discussions aimed to shed light on potential inclusive employment opportunities. Beyond workshops, the project encompassed digital literacy training for TVET students with disabilities. The goal was to equip students with the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape effectively, fostering self-sufficiency and entrepreneurial spirit. The participants not only learned essential digital skills but also created business plans, demonstrating their critical thinking and strategic capabilities. The three-year journey concluded with a heartfelt congratulations to 15 TVET students with disabilities who successfully completed "Entrepreneurship and Business Development Training."

In essence, the "Towards Inclusive Employment for People with Disabilities" project has not only raised awareness but has also initiated tangible changes in the attitudes of employers and institutions. By fostering inclusivity and providing the necessary skills, the project has laid a foundation for a more equitable and empowered future for people with disabilities in the workplace.

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