Aspire to Innovate- a2i Program and Friendship (social purpose organization) celebrated Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) in Dhaka.
GAAD acts as a platform to create awareness and improve digital accessibility for approximately 16 million individuals with disabilities in Bangladesh.
Distinguished visitors attended the occasion, including chief guest Md Shamsul Arefin, special guest the secretary of the ICT Division; Md Shaiful Islam, joint project director a2i and joint secretary of ICT; and Ahmed Toufiqur Rahman, deputy director of Friendship.
Md Shamsul Arefin pointed out the importance of an inclusive digital government service system in his statements.
He assured full cooperation in implementing the National Web and e-Services Accessibility Guidelines and making websites and digital services accessible for all including persons with disability.
The workshop started on time with the introductory speech by Manik Mahmud (Programme Specialist Innovation, a2i), the moderator of the event.
In his welcome speech, he briefed about Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and highlighted the importance and significance of the day.
The event included informative sessions and practical demonstrations by experts from a2i and Friendship.
Vashkar Bhattacharjee, National Consultant accessibility at a2i, showcased accessibility websites and digital services in Bangladesh while highlighting the barriers that still exist. Rahman from Friendship emphasized the importance of comprehensive planning and research to provide disability-friendly inclusive accessible internet services to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities.
He stressed the need for collaboration and financial investment to develop accessible tools and equipment.
The chair Dewan Muhammad Humayun Kabir, the project director (Additional Secretary) of the a2i, concluded the event by expressing Bangladesh's commitment to inclusive digital services.
He mentioned ongoing efforts to make websites and digital services accessible to all, including marginalized communities and people with disabilities.
The celebration of Global Accessibility Awareness Day in Bangladesh brought together a2i and Friendship to advocate for digital inclusivity.
The event highlighted the achievements and commitments of the organizations, with prominent speakers emphasizing the need for accessible digital services and inclusivity.
By promoting awareness and implementing guidelines, Bangladesh aims to create a more inclusive society where everyone can benefit from digital advancements leaving no one behind.
