Josaia Suqesuqevanua, the Office Manager of United Blind Persons, has voiced robust support for the Inclusive Employment Guidebook, asserting that it goes beyond being a mere policy document or technical resource. He emphasizes that the guidebook is rooted in evidence, real-life experiences, and collaborative dialogues, underscoring a collective belief in the necessity of inclusive employment for dignity, economic engagement, and the overall development of the nation.
In 2024, the United Blind Persons of Fiji, backed by the Disability Rights Fund, conducted a comprehensive situational survey amongst its members who are blind or have low vision. This survey provided critical insights that shaped the guidebook’s formulation. Suqesuqevanua explained that the assessment focused on five crucial areas: health services, social protection, quality education, assistive devices and technology, and employment. Among these, employment emerged as the most significant barrier to independence and inclusion. He highlighted that without job opportunities, access to essential services and education cannot foster long-term dignity or financial stability.
The initial version of the guidebook was tailored specifically for individuals with visual impairments, as indicated in its first draft. However, post-launch of the survey report, feedback from various stakeholders led to recommendations for expanding its scope. Responding to this constructive input, UBP revised the guidebook from its third draft onward to encompass the experiences of all individuals with disabilities, acknowledging that while the needs for support may vary, everyone has a right to meaningful work.
Suqesuqevanua also mentioned that the development of the guidebook involved consultations with UBP and other disability organizations aimed at pinpointing workplace barriers and identifying necessary accommodations for successful employment. In 2025, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) proposed incorporating the viewpoints of employees and policymakers. This initiative resulted in the formation of a working group, with support from the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation, DFED, and the Ministry of Employment, which collected valuable feedback formally recognized in the guidebook.
The guidebook serves as a practical companion to the Employment Relations Act, effectively translating legal principles regarding non-discrimination and reasonable accommodations into straightforward guidance for all. This proactive approach not only highlights the commitment to inclusivity but also signals a positive step towards enhancing the lives of all individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
Leave a comment