Introduction:
In 2009, STEP (Special Talent Exchange Program) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Telenor Pakistan to collaborate on the Khuddar Pakistan initiative. Khuddar Pakistan, Telenor’s flagship corporate responsibility program, aims to improve the lives of persons with disabilities (PWDs) by addressing the challenges they face and promoting their inclusion in society.
Objectives of Khuddar Pakistan:
- Raise Awareness: Telenor seeks to change public perceptions about the abilities of persons with disabilities by raising awareness and highlighting their potential contributions to society.
- Technology Development: The initiative aims to develop technologies that enable persons with disabilities to actively participate in various aspects of life, thus empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.
- Workforce Inclusion: Telenor pledges to integrate persons with disabilities fully into its workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for employment and career advancement.
Implementation of MOU:
Following the signing of the MOU, STEP took proactive steps to fulfill the agreed-upon activities. These included:
- Assistive Technology Training Labs: Telenor sponsored assistive technology training labs for persons with disabilities at prominent institutions such as the National Institute of Special Education, National Training Center for Special Persons (NTCSP), and STEP. These labs provide persons with disabilities access to technology that enhances their independence and productivity.
- Accessibility Audits: STEP conducted accessibility audits of Telenor offices nationwide to identify and address physical and digital barriers that may hinder access for persons with disabilities. These audits are essential for ensuring that Telenor’s facilities and services are inclusive and accessible to all.
- Disability Equality Trainings: As part of the partnership, STEP conducted Disability Equality Trainings for Telenor Pakistan staff. These trainings aimed to enhance staff awareness and understanding of disability issues, promoting a culture of inclusion and support within the organization.
Impact and Outcomes:
The collaboration between STEP and Telenor under the Khuddar Pakistan initiative has yielded significant outcomes:
- Increased Awareness: Through targeted initiatives and campaigns, public awareness about disability rights and inclusion has been raised, contributing to a shift in societal attitudes towards persons with disabilities.
- Technological Empowerment: The establishment of assistive technology training labs has empowered persons with disabilities by providing them with access to tools and resources that facilitate their integration into society.
- Workforce Diversity: Telenor’s commitment to integrating persons with disabilities into its workforce has resulted in greater diversity and inclusion, creating opportunities for individuals to thrive based on their abilities rather than disabilities.
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A print ad featured in the Daily Express further elucidates the Khuddar Pakistan initiative, highlighting Telenor’s dedication to empowering persons with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society.
Conclusion:
The partnership between STEP and Telenor Pakistan under the Khuddar Pakistan initiative exemplifies a proactive approach towards addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities. By combining resources, expertise, and commitment, both organizations have made significant strides towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society where every individual, regardless of ability, can realize their full potential.
