Orange Jordan Champions Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in ICT Sector
Orange Jordan recently hosted its 4th Tech WIN session, bringing together stakeholders to discuss enhancing the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities within Jordan's Information and Communication Technology sector. The event highlighted both challenges and significant opportunities for greater integration.
Driving Digital Inclusion in Jordan
Held at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, the session was a key part of Orange Jordan's ongoing commitment to digital inclusion and social responsibility initiatives. The primary focus was on creating more opportunities and improving the integration of persons with disabilities (PwD) into the burgeoning ICT sector in Jordan. The event brought together a diverse group including representatives from the private and public sectors, civil society organizations supporting PwD, and individuals with disabilities themselves.
Key Discussions and Calls for Collaboration
Participants engaged in robust discussions addressing the various facets of PwD inclusion in ICT. Key themes explored included:
Identifying the current challenges faced by PwD in accessing relevant education, training, and employment within the tech industry.
Highlighting the significant untapped potential and unique contributions that individuals with disabilities can offer to the ICT workforce.
Showcasing existing successful programs and initiatives aimed at supporting PwD inclusion.
Emphasizing the critical need for improved accessibility in digital platforms, infrastructure, and workplace environments, alongside supportive policies.
A major takeaway from the session was the urgent call for enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders – government entities, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and private sector companies – to collectively work towards breaking down barriers and creating genuinely inclusive environments.
The Value of PwD in the Tech Workforce
The session underscored the compelling reasons why integrating persons with disabilities into the ICT sector is not just a social imperative but also a strategic advantage. Employing individuals with diverse abilities enriches teams with varied perspectives, fosters innovation, expands the talent pool, and contributes to economic empowerment for individuals and national growth. The discussions reinforced the idea that the focus should be on skills, capabilities, and providing necessary accommodations rather than perceived limitations.
Orange's Commitment to Social Responsibility
Hosting this session is aligned with Orange Jordan's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, which prioritizes digital inclusion and supports vulnerable segments of the population. The company aims to leverage its resources and influence to create a more equitable society, viewing diversity and equal opportunity as fundamental pillars of its operations and impact in Jordan. This event is a testament to their ongoing efforts to address societal challenges through targeted initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The 4th Tech WIN session served as a vital platform for dialogue and awareness regarding the inclusion of persons with disabilities in Jordan's ICT sector. The insights and calls for action from the event highlight that sustained effort, cross-sector partnership, and a commitment to accessibility are crucial next steps. Building a truly inclusive tech ecosystem requires ongoing collabortion and the implementation of tangible strategies to ensure PwD can fully participate and thrive.
Source: Zawya