1. Background

Skills development is central in enabling people with disabilities to take part in the labour force. Those who have had the opportunity to acquire marketable skills are more likely to obtain decent and productive work, and demonstrate their potential to earn a living and contribute in the world of work. Yet access to appropriate skills training is not available to a significant number of disabled women and men for differing reasons. Access to general skills development programmes is often limited, with little encouragement or accommodation of the participation of disabled persons. Where training is provided in dedicated centres, catering only to persons with disabilities the training curriculum and equipment are frequently outdated and is less likely than the general training programmes to reflect the requirements of labour market or self-employment opportunities. People with disabilities in developing countries mainly attend training programmes in such centres, or do not attend any training at all, resulting for many in social exclusion and in poverty. The result is a loss of potential, with implications for individuals and for societies

2. Objectives

The main purpose of the conference is to review the status of laws and policies, programmes and services relating to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in general vocational education and training, and to identify steps required to improve their access to general skills development programmes. The conference will also provide an opportunity to share knowledge and good practices in inclusive vocational training in the region and globally and encourage countries to take tripartite-plus action at national level on promoting policies on inclusive vocational education and training.

3. Expected Outputs

• Laws and policies, programmes and services relating to inclusion of persons with disabilities in inclusive vocational training reviewed
• Knowledge and good practices by social partners of inclusive vocational training in the region shared
• Steps required to improve access by people with disabilities to general skills development programmes identified
• Tripartite action at national level on promoting policies on inclusive vocational training encouraged.

4. Target groups

Approximately 50 people representing ministries of labour, education, organizations of employers, workers, and people with disabilities.

5. Tentative date and venue

29-31 March, 2011, Amari Watergate Hotel, 847 Petchburi Road, Bangkok 10400. Tel. +66 (0) 2653 9000, Fax. +66 (0) 2653 9045

6. Implementing Agency

International Labour Organization