Sri Lanka showcases inclusion at “Embracing Diversity” event

• Organizers say the event reinforces Sri Lanka’s commitment to building a society where every person, regardless of ability, can access education, employment, and opportunities to contribute with pride  

The Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo 7 will host “Embracing Diversity – Skills and Work for Persons with Disabilities”, a landmark event highlighting inclusion in education, employment, and society on November 21, 2025. Organized under the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education in partnership with GIZ’s Vocational Training in Sri Lanka (VTSL 2023–2026) project, the event demonstrates how skills and opportunity empower persons with disabilities to thrive.  

The initiative, implemented by GIZ GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), brings together policymakers, educators, employers, and families to celebrate ability over limitation and collaboration over sympathy.   

A key feature, the Job Match Pavilion, led by the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), connects jobseekers with disabilities to inclusive employers across sectors including hospitality, ICT, manufacturing, retail, and finance. Over 100 CVs from talented individuals have already been submitted, emphasizing that hiring inclusively is both a business advantage and a path to dignity for employees.   

The Economic Zone highlights entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities, showcasing innovative products from schools and organizations such as Dayamina, Chitra Lane, Ayati, and the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon’s Disability Resource Centre.   

The Creative Zone, curated by the Chitra Lane School for Special Children, will feature music, dance, drama, and art exhibitions, illustrating the limitless creativity of children and adults with disabilities.   

Interactive workshops, dialogue sessions, and exhibitions offer visitors opportunities to learn, connect, and support inclusive initiatives.   

Organizers said the event reinforces Sri Lanka’s commitment to building a society where every person, regardless of ability, can access education, employment, and opportunities to contribute with pride.