Around 40 representatives from Fiji’s outsourcing services, tourism, and agriculture sectors participated in a specialized training on workplace accessibility and disability inclusion. This initiative reflects a growing commitment within Fiji’s business community to recognize disability inclusion as a vital social responsibility and a beneficial investment.
The two-day training was organized by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) and the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation (FDPF), with support from the Australian Government’s Market Development Facility (MDF). Participants gained practical tools aimed at understanding and addressing accessibility challenges and implementing inclusive solutions in their workplaces.
NCPD’s executive director, Jone Robanakadavu, emphasized that as the private sector increasingly values diversity, this training is instrumental in enhancing hiring practices and improving accessibility. Robanakadavu asserted that employing persons with disabilities can unlock valuable skills and innovate within businesses.
The Fijian Government has also introduced incentives to support inclusivity, such as tax deductions for companies that expand their workforce to include persons with disabilities. Ilisoni Ratusai, a senior People and Culture officer at Centrecom, contributed that promoting inclusion is fundamental rather than a benevolent act. Moira Vilisoni from the Fiji Museum echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of integrating inclusivity into institutional strategies.
Earlier this year, the collaboration between the NCPD and MDF led to a Memorandum of Understanding, focusing on eradicating barriers that limit participation for individuals with disabilities in key sectors like agriculture, outsourcing, and tourism. This initiative aims to enhance access to training and financial services, further aligning with Fiji’s broader goal of improving inclusivity across various domains.
MDF Fiji’s country director, Kelera Cavuilati, described the training as a “call to action,” urging business leaders to consider role design, recruitment, and the support of diverse teams as integral to their operations.
Notably, the 2017 Fiji National Census revealed that over 13% of Fiji’s population experiences some form of disability, with a mere 27% of individuals aged 15 and over being economically active, according to the 2023 Fiji Disability Statistics Monograph by the Pacific Community. There is significant potential for growth, especially as businesses recognize the untapped talent within this demographic.
This training serves as a promising step towards a more inclusive business environment in Fiji, reminding stakeholders that fostering an inclusive culture not only benefits individuals with disabilities but can also enhance the overall business landscape and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
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