The number of disabled people in Bangladesh is high. While most people in this group are not yet covered by a general education scheme, those who graduate find it difficult to find suitable jobs. To help people with disabilities find employment in the labor market, the Bangladesh Business & Disability Network (BBDN) has been working with its member organizations and other sector stakeholders since 2016.
“The network is a non-profit trust established by the Bangladesh Employers Federation (BEF), which was officially launched by the Honorable Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina on December 11, 2016 during the inauguration of the Dhaka Summit on skills and employment,” said Murteza Rafi Khan, CEO, Bangladesh Business & Disability Network.
Through BBDN’s activities, people with disabilities obtain benefits ranging from the possibility of accessing vocational training, participation in targeted job fairs, on-the-spot interviews, and thus opening up opportunities. shift. In addition, the BBDN represents the collective voice of employers wishing to bring about change in society by defending the rights of people with disabilities.
Khan said, “The BBDN comprises a group of representatives from business, civil society, non-governmental organizations and disabled people’s organizations working together to create an inclusive labor market in Bangladesh.
“Hiring people with disabilities can contribute to overall diversity, creativity and morale in the workplace. It improves a company’s image and engagement among its staff, in the community and among customers,” he added.
People with disabilities represent an untapped source of skills and talents, including technical skills if they have access to training.
During the COVID pandemic, many people with disabilities have lost their jobs. Freshmen entering the job market struggled to cope with interviews as most companies froze their hiring process. BBDN and its partners hosted two online job fairs, which aimed to connect job seekers with disabilities to employers using a virtual platform.
It was the first time in Bangladesh that online job fairs were held for people with disabilities, which was well received and appreciated by all stakeholders. Both salons managed to achieve the desired result. As it was a virtual event, contestants from across the country could easily register on the show platform, and no travel was required.
“Employers were initially skeptical of the possible effects of an online trade show. However, by the close of the deal, they were enthusiastic and encouraged. Additionally, candidates found the learning session facilitated by experts from very useful company,” said Murteza Khan. , CEO, Bangladesh Business & Disability Network.
One in seven people in the world has some form of disability, making people with disabilities the largest minority group in the world. They face many barriers that prevent them from meaningfully participating in education, skills development and employment, among other facets of society. The BBDN serves as a gateway to creating an inclusive environment for people with disabilities and helping them find employment.
For more information on the activities of the Bangladesh Business & Disability Network (BBDN), visit their webpage: https://www.bbdn.com.bd
Follow them on social media: https://www.facebook.com/bbdnofficial
