Islamabad: Pakistan Disabled Foundation in collaboration with Serena Hotels organized a thought-provoking event on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Held at the Islamabad Serena Hotel, the event brought together experts, policy makers, academics and advocates to discuss the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Pakistan and explore avenues for greater inclusion and accessibility.
The distinguished panel of speakers included, Abdul Wahab Shahid, Manager Monitoring, IGNITE, Imtiaz Ali, Senior Deputy Chief Manager, State Bank of Pakistan, Shahid Memon, President, Pakistan Disabled Foundation, Tahir Naeem, Representative Inter-Islamic Network on Information. Technology (IINIT) and Planning and Development at COMSATS University Islamabad, Dr. Humira Aziz, Chairperson, Department of Special Education, University of Karachi, Dr. Shafuta Iqbal, Retired Principal, Post Graduate College Balochistan and PhD Supervisor, Lincoln University Malaysia, Prof. Dr. M. Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor, National Skills University Islamabad, Dr. Shahzad Khalid from Bahria University.
Speakers highlighted the need to step up efforts and bring about changes at the policy level for accessibility for persons with disabilities. Ms. Shahida Rahmani, Parliamentary Secretary and Chief Guest delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness and promoting an inclusive society. “Celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is important to remove barriers faced by persons with disabilities and ensure that they are empowered to live lives of dignity and opportunity,” he said.
The event also highlighted Serena Hotels’ commitment to inclusion through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as its properties. Improving accessibility and creating employment opportunities for people with disabilities. At the end of the event, participants reiterated their commitment to building a more inclusive Pakistan, where people with disabilities can live independent and fulfilling lives. Authority is available.