Islamabad: The NOWPDP Islamabad team commemorated the International Day for Persons with Disabilities by organizing disability awareness sessions at the head offices of Telenor Pakistan, PTCL, and LMKR in the capital. These sessions aimed to foster understanding, spark meaningful discussions, and emphasize the importance of prioritizing the individuality and rights of persons with disabilities.
NOWPDP (Network of Organizations Working for People with Disabilities, Pakistan) is a Karachi-based non-profit organization dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities through education, skill development, and employment opportunities. Established in 2008, NOWPDP works to promote inclusion, accessibility, and sustainable change by collaborating with various stakeholders across Pakistan.
The events brought together employees from the respective organizations, creating a platform for engaging conversations and interactive learning. Participants were encouraged to view individuals with disabilities as equals, focusing on their unique talents and capabilities rather than their impairments.
The discussions highlighted the necessity of creating inclusive workspaces that empower persons with disabilities by ensuring equal opportunities in all areas of life. Through scenario-based learning and hands-on activities, participants explored practical strategies for breaking societal norms and barriers, fostering a culture of inclusion and mutual respect.
Speaking on the occasion, representatives from NOWPDP underlined the significance of collective action in promoting disability rights and building environments where everyone can thrive. The sessions served as a call to action for workplaces to rethink their policies and practices, ensuring they accommodate and celebrate diversity.
NOWPDP’s programs, such as the Accessible Karachi initiative and its skill training centers, have been instrumental in changing perceptions about disability and enabling countless individuals to lead independent lives.
The International Day for Persons with Disabilities is observed globally on December 3rd to promote awareness and advocate for the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. NOWPDP’s efforts in Islamabad reflect its commitment to driving positive change and raising awareness about the importance of inclusion in Pakistan.
