Breaking barriers: A three-day training transforms workplaces with ILO’s workplace adaptation programme
The International Labour Organization (ILO) advanced its Workplace Adaptation Programme (WAP) with a transformative three-day training in Ankara, equipping trainers and workers with tools to foster inclusive and equitable work environments. Covering key topics like workplace rights, gender equality, and cultural understanding, the program empowered participants to champion social cohesion and workplace harmony. This initiative is a cornerstone of ILO’s mission to create respectful, inclusive workplaces for all, bridging communities and breaking barriers.
28 November 2024
ANKARA (ILO News) In a groundbreaking three-day training held at Park Inn by Radisson Hotel, Ankara, International Labour Organization (ILO) took significant strides in promoting social cohesion and workplace harmony through its Workplace Adaptation Programme (WAP).
Equipping Trainers to Foster Change
The event began with two days dedicated to Training of Trainers (ToT) which addressed the ISKUR Officials. Directorate General of International Labour Force (DGILF) officials also took place in the hall to observe and provide feedback for the event. Participants gained critical insights into:
- Core Labour Rights: Covering fundamental worker rights, social security, and decent work standards.
- Gender Equality, Discrimination and Mobbing: Discussions aimed to challenge and prejudice stereotypes and foster equity at the workplace.
- Occupational Safety and Health: Fostering knowledge on rights, practices and musts on safety and health at the workplace. In addition to conveying the basic information regarding the implementation of the Occupational Safety and Health Law No. 6331Discussions were held on how to address and prevent the misconducts.
- Climate Change and Just Transition: Session aimed to discuss on the new global and national actions on climate change, green jobs and just transition to minimize the loss in the labour market while adapting these changes in the world of work.
- Highlights in adult training modalities: how to lead the training groups effectively and meet the expectations of the participants during the trainings.
Through interactive sessions, the trainers explored the dynamics of adult learning, empowering them to deliver impactful training at their respective workplaces.
Day Three 28 November 2024: Bringing Knowledge to Practice
The final day transitioned to Pilot Training which hosted 28 workers from three companies mostly from metal and manufacturing sector. The spotlight was on practical implementation of the Workplace Adaptation Programme Training. Participants are gathered and engaged in:
- Core Labour Rights Awareness Workshops: Delving into key topics like fair wages, rights on leave, parental leaves, occupational safety and health vitals,
- Case Study practices: Following gender equality, , discrimination mobbing definitions on these climate change awareness including how to change habits at the workplace and just transition practices to ensure sustainable business models while protecting workers’ rights.
- Effective Cultural Communication Tips and Exchange Activities: Promoting cross-cultural understanding and mutual respect between refugee and host community workers and practicing workplace buddy pairing system
A Strategy Rooted in Inclusion
The WAP introduced the innovative "Workplace Buddy" system, pairing participants from refugee and host communities. This approach encourages shared learning and cultural exchange, laying the foundation for lasting professional and personal bonds.
Transformative Impact
Workplace Adaptation Programme which has been implemented by ILO Türkiye Office since 2019 has reached out to approximately 2400 refugee and host community workers. The training not only provided knowledge to the participants but also transformed perspectives. It served as a platform to dismantle prejudices, promote equity, and build bridges across diverse communities. This programme is not just about learning; it’s about transforming workplaces into spaces where everyone feels valued and empowered.
Looking Forward
With the knowledge expanded, ISKUR trainers will now spread workplace adaptation efforts, ensuring that the principles of decent work resonate across Türkiye. This marks a critical step towards achieving the ILO’s vision of social justice and inclusive development in the valuable partnership of ISKUR.
The International Labour Organization continues to advance its mission: building bridges of understanding, one workplace at a time
The training was part of the “Decent and Sustainable Livelihood Opportunities for All” Project financed by the U.S. Government, aiming to create inclusive and respectful work environments for refugees and host communities in Türkiye.
