December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a United Nations initiative that champions the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities. The day is also a reminder of the need for inclusivity in every sphere of society, including the workplace. In the Philippines, the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities mandates that corporations actively hire individuals with disabilities, reserving a minimum of 1 percent of their workforce for this purpose.
Accenture Philippines has taken significant strides in adhering to this mandate and setting a benchmark for disability inclusion in the workplace. In 2019, Accenture Philippines pioneered and launched an Accessibility Center as part of its commitment to being the most inclusive and diverse employer in the IT-BPM industry. These centers are outfitted with advanced tools and technology designed to accommodate employees with disabilities. This initiative allows for a more inclusive work environment, enabling individuals to perform their roles effectively.
The innovative tools introduced by Accenture like- the We Walk smart cane for the visually impaired and the Inclusive Virtual Experience for Everyone application- demonstrate a proactive approach to integrating technology with accessibility.
The Accessibility Center on Wheels, in particular, is a notable innovation that emerged during the pandemic, reflecting Accenture’s commitment and adaptive approach to inclusion. In addition to a range of existing supportive technologies, Accenture offers:
1.For sense of hearing: “Dhvani,” a software for generating instant video subtitles and converting spoken words into text (and vice versa) during calls for clearer communication; headsets with specialty functions and noise cancellation; and devices to monitor noise levels.
- For sense of sight: Keyboards with color contrast and Braille stickers, electronic magnifiers, desktop access software for the visually impaired, voice-activated controls, canes, and tactile Braille indicators.
- For mobility: Environment-adaptive features like intelligent lighting, automated doors, and manual and powered wheelchairs.
Such initiatives are instrumental in fostering an environment where every employee, regardless of disability, is empowered to contribute meaningfully to their workplace and community. Accenture’s recognition with the Manuel Agcaoili Employer of the Year Award for the Large Company Category at the Apolinario Mabini Awarding ceremony underscores the impact of its efforts in promoting inclusivity. This honor, conferred by the Philippine Foundation for Rehabilitation of the Disabled, Inc. (PFRD) at Malacañang, acknowledges the company’s efforts in empowering individuals with disabilities. Rudy Guiao, Special Advisor for Global Accessibility Center and Inclusion & Diversity Lead for Global Infrastructure Shared Services at Accenture, said: “At Accenture in the Philippines, we are strongly committed in creating a culture of equality and making a difference by enabling our people from diverse backgrounds, with unique abilities, talents and skills to thrive and achieve their best potential, irrespective of visible or non-apparent disabilities. That is why we have been relentless in driving innovation at our Accessibility Centers in the Philippines so that we are able to create a barrier-free work environment where our people with disabilities have access to latest assistive tools and technology that are suited for their needs, empowering them in the work that they do and inspiring them to create positive change and impact in their communities.”
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities serves as a catalyst for continuing these advancements and encouraging other organizations to follow suit. It’s a day to reflect on the progress made and the journey ahead in creating truly inclusive workspaces, reflecting the diverse tapestry of society itself.