Differently abled persons day marked

Islamabad : Pakistan Disabled Foundation in collaboration with Serena Hotels, organised a thought-provoking event to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event held at Islamabad Serena Hotel, brought together experts, policymakers, academics, and advocates to discuss the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Pakistan and explore pathways 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 of the Inter-Islamic Network on Information Technology (IINIT) and Planning and Development at COMSATS University Islamabad, Dr. Humera Aziz, Chairperson, Special Education Department, Karachi University, Dr. Shagufta Iqbal, Retired Principal, Postgraduate College Balochistan and PhD Supervisor, Lincoln University Malaysia, Professor Dr. M. Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor, National Skills University Islamabad, Dr. Shehzad Khalid from Bahria University.

The speakers shed light on the need to advance the efforts for accessibility for persons with disabilities and to bring about change in policy level. Ms. Shahida Rehmani, Parliamentary Secretary and Guest of Honor, delivered a keynote address, underscoring the importance of raising awareness and fostering an inclusive society. She remarked, “Observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is essential to addressing the barriers faced by persons with disabilities and ensuring they are empowered to live with dignity and opportunity.”

The event also highlighted Serena Hotels' commitment to inclusivity through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as improving accessibility at its properties and creating employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. As the event concluded, participants reaffirmed their dedication to building a more inclusive Pakistan, where individuals with disabilities are empowered to lead independent and fulfilling lives.