In a groundbreaking initiative to foster inclusivity and accessibility in the professional realm, the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) Karachi, in collaboration with ConnectHear, orchestrated a pioneering career fair titled ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’. This landmark event, held at the IBA Main Campus, spotlighted the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and underscored the imperative of creating an inclusive environment on campus.
ConnectHear, a trailblazing social enterprise dedicated to enhancing sign language accessibility and deaf inclusion in Pakistan, joined forces with IBA’s Office of Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (ODAI) under the auspices of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to orchestrate this transformative initiative. The event served as a platform for thirty-three organizations and seven hundred PWDs to connect with potential employers and explore career opportunities in an environment conducive to their needs.
Distinguished guests, including Co-Founder & CEO of ConnectHear, Azima Dhanjee, and Co-Founder & CTO, Arhum Ishtiaq, lauded the event’s success, underscoring the significance of inclusive hiring practices and the removal of barriers for individuals with diverse abilities. Former First Lady of Pakistan, Samina Alvi, commended the efforts of ConnectHear and emphasized the pivotal role of initiatives like ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’ in fostering empowerment and inclusion among PWDs.
Muhammad Umar, Country Head of Human Resources at Standard Chartered Bank Pakistan, delivered a compelling keynote address, urging society to shift its perspective towards celebrating abilities rather than disabilities. He stressed the importance of equal opportunities for all individuals and advocated for the active involvement of organizations in building an infrastructure that prioritizes inclusivity.
Maheen Ghauri, Dean Student Affairs at IBA, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to facilitating students and staff with diverse abilities. She emphasized the collective responsibility of society in creating awareness and providing opportunities for individuals with unique talents and capabilities.
The event culminated in a panel discussion titled ‘Jobs for People with Disabilities in Pakistan: What’s Happening Now’, providing participants with valuable insights and networking opportunities. The resounding success of ‘ACCESS.ABILITY.CAREERS 2024’ epitomizes the unwavering dedication of ConnectHear and IBA Karachi towards promoting accessibility and inclusivity, setting a precedent for transformative change in Pakistan’s professional landscape.
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