ABOUT 40 business management and human resources representatives from Fiji’s outsourcing services, tourism and agriculture sectors undertook specialised training on workplace accessibility and disability inclusion.
This is in line with a growing recognition within Fiji’s business community that disability inclusion is both a social responsibility and a smart investment,
The two-day Workplace Accessibility and Sensitisation training was conducted by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) and the Fiji Disabled People’s Federation (FDPF) and supported by the Australian Government’s Market Development Facility (MDF).
It helped equip businesses with practical tools to better understand accessibility challenges and implement inclusive solutions.
“As the private sector increasingly embraces diversity and views inclusion as a strategic workforce priority, this training supports efforts to improve accessibility, hiring practices, and workforce resilience. Persons with disabilities bring valuable skills and perspectives to the workplace,” NCPD executive director Jone Robanakadavu said in a statement.
“By fostering inclusive environments and removing barriers, businesses can unlock untapped potential and drive innovation.”
To support businesses in advancing accessibility and inclusivity, the Fijian Government has introduced several incentives, including tax deductions for companies that employ persons with disabilities.
“Inclusion is not a favour, it’s a fundamental right,” workshop participant and senior People and Culture officer at Centrecom Ilisoni Ratusai said.
“For the outsourcing services sector, there’s opportunity to tap into a diverse, loyal and skilled talent pool which is great for retention.”
Manager Experience at the Fiji Museum Moira Vilisoni also reiterated the importance of the workshop.
“I found that it was good to be part of the training as we develop our strategies and policies to align inclusivity,” said Ms. Vilisoni.
Earlier this year, the NCPD and MDF signed a Memorandum of Understanding to coordinate efforts addressing barriers that limit the participation of people with disabilities, particularly in key growth sectors such as agriculture, outsourcing services and tourism.
These efforts include improving access to training, social protection, business support and financial services.
Central to the partnership is MDF’s commitment to better understanding the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and working directly with industry stakeholders to promote inclusive business models that foster sustainable economic opportunities.
“This training is more than just a learning event. It’s a call to action, a chance to reflect on how we design roles, recruit talent and support diverse teams,” MDF Fiji country director Kelera Cavuilati said.
“The private sector has a critical role to play in shaping inclusive economies, and your participation is a strong signal of your commitment to being part of the change.”
The 2017 Fiji National Census revealed that over 13 per cent of Fiji’s population experience some form of disability while the Pacific Community’s (SPC) 2023 Fiji Disability Statistics Monograph reported that only 27 per cent of people with disabilities aged 15 and over are economically active.
Note: This article was first published on the print version of the Fiji Times dated July 3, 2025
