Pakistan Business and Disability Network hosted first policy roundtable

Header Graphics
30 Jun 2025

For the first time, at the end of 2024, the Pakistan Business and Disability Network (PBDN) brought together all major stakeholders in a policy reform dialogue, focusing on the country's SME Policy 2021, TVET Policy 2018, and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP). Private sector leaders, government officials, and organisations working for people with disabilities deliberated on the current challenges and proposed actionable recommendations.

The PBDN hosted its first Policy Dialogue on Disability Inclusion in Karachi, bringing together government officials, private sector leaders, international organisations, and OPDs. The dialogue focused on key policy areas, including the SME Policy, TVET Policy, and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP), to discuss reforms for enhancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Pakistan’s workforce.

Presentations from ILO, Sightsavers, GIZ, and other key organisations highlighted the challenges faced by PWDs, with stakeholders working in groups to propose actionable recommendations. Ghulam Mohiuddin Asim, Additional Secretary of DEPD, reiterated the government's commitment to implementing these reforms, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive nation.

This policy brief aims to guide the following: 

  • Federal and Provincial Vocational, technical and training authorities and regulatory bodies, including training institutions.
  • National and provincial TVET institutions.
  • Private-sector and organisations working for people with disabilities.
  • National, regional, and sectoral business and employers’ associations and civil society organisations.
  • Provincial government relevant departments and authorities working on disability inclusion, including the Ministry of Human Rights, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, and the Ministry of Industries and Production. 

Key recommendations: 

  • Developing a disability inclusion action plan.
  • Ensuring physical accessibility in TVET and SME facilities.
  • Incentivising disability-led startups.
  • Embedding inclusive communication in the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme.
  • Special focus is placed on supporting youth and women with disabilities to enhance their skills and employability. 

These actions aim to create equitable opportunities, foster a more inclusive workforce, and advance Pakistan’s human rights and development goals.

collage of photos taken at the roundtable event