The Disabled Persons Commission, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission, and the Collaborative Partnership Network partnered to host the ninth annual Symposium on Inclusive Education and Employment, today, Nov. 30, in Halifax.
The 2016 theme is Ability Starts Here – Taking a Fresh Perspective.
The symposium kicks off celebrations leading up to the International Day of the Persons with Disabilities, Dec. 3. It is a chance for Nova Scotians to discuss disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities throughout the global community.
“This year’s theme is about finding new ways to approach the wide range of talents and abilities of Nova Scotians,” said Joanne Bernard, minister responsible for the Disabled Persons Commission. “The symposium is an opportunity to send a message that people have many capabilities that make them not just valuable contributors, but leaders in communities.”
The symposium is highlighted by the Lieutenant Governor’s Persons with Disabilities Employer Partnership Award which honours employers from across the province who have instituted and promoted best practices towards the employment, independence and service to persons with disabilities. This year’s award recipient is Sobeys, Cole Harbour.
“The symposium is a unique networking opportunity to help educators and employers take down barriers to inclusion,” said Janice Ainsworth, co-chair, Collaborative Partnership Network. “It is also a chance to learn about emerging best practices to support a truly inclusive environment for students and job seekers with disabilities, as they bridge the transition from education to employment.”
More than 300 participants, including educators, employers, labour organizations, entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities, government representatives, career practitioners and employment service agencies, will discuss current issues and topics related to the education and employment of persons with disabilities.
The topics include:
–accessibility in schools and universities, in employment and business, and the community
–creating a culture of inclusion and diversity – life without barriers
–inclusive education and the transition to employment
–talent Untapped, a film by Anna-Karina Tabunar
–emerging technology – benefit or barrier to persons with disabilities
–customer service – the bottom line.
For more information, go to http://abilitystartshere.ca.
Source: Release