Technology can be life changing for people with disabilities. It can provide opportunities for them to participate more fully in the workforce, to access education, and to lead more independent lives.

A report from the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) said people with disabilities are an overlooked source of innovative talent as in the Asia and the Pacific alone, there are 472 million people with disabilities of working age, who are two to six times less likely to be employed than their peers without a disability.

This webinar, "Empowering People with Disabilities through Technology," marked this year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities Day, which is themed "United in action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for, with and by persons with disabilities."

Panelists discussed the breakthroughs in technology that foster inclusivity and participation. They also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and assistive technologies in dismantling barriers to accessibility, amplify what a person with disability can do, and examine how digital platforms can be pivotal in promoting inclusive education and employment.

The webinar was co-organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), ERIA, Google, International Labour Organization, and the Tech for Good Institute. 

Speakers

• Moderator: Meredith Wyse, Senior Social Development Specialist (Aging and Care), Human and Social Development Office, Sectors Group, ADB
• Juan Magdaraog, Consultant and SEADS Website Lead, ADB
• Darren Chua, International Speaker and Empowerment Coach, Mindset Transformation Clinic
• Cathy Holloway, Cofounder and Academic Director, Global Disability Innovation Hub; Professor,   Interaction Centre, University College London
• Ryan Rahardjo, Head of Public Affairs Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier, Google
• Jamie Ko, Director, Regional Public Affairs and Policy, Grab
• Stefan Tromel, Senior Disability Specialist, International Labour Organization