AUB OSB in Collaboration with ProAbled Academy are Paving the Way for a Future of Disability Inclusion

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AUB OSB in Collaboration with ProAbled Academy are Paving the Way for a Future of Disability Inclusion

Wednesday, July 06, 2022

With more than 15% of the world's population being Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and 400,000 PWDs living in Lebanon, of which 95% are uneducated and 85% are unemployed, disability inclusion education is a must.

Through the #OSBImpact initiative, Dr. Alain Daou, Associate Professor of entrepreneurship at the Suliman S. Olayan School of Business (OSB) at the American University of Beirut (AUB) collaborated with ProAbled Academy to introduce to students and staff at OSB a course titled “Essentials of Disability and Inclusion." This course, which is one of four online courses offered by ProAbled Academy, provides an overview of inclusion, tips, and techniques to interact with persons with physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities. According to Dr. Daou, “studies show that inclusion of PWDs in the workplace brings social and economic benefits to the organizations". He adds that it gives access to new talent, increases innovation and better organizational reputation.

ProAbled Academy's vision is to contribute to building an inclusive society where Persons with Disabilities can lead a productive and dignified life. This vision aligns with AUB engagement towards diversity and inclusion, which stresses on respect, integrity, leadership, and civic responsibility. Thus, understanding how to contribute to an inclusive society made the collaboration even more significant, especially that the participants will become future leaders in the business world. “Knowledge of disability inclusion is a key component for any powerful role model in the marketplace, society, and global presence", said Samer Sfeir, Founder and Managing Director of ProAbled Academy.

Sixty students and staff participated and learned about inclusion in a gamified and interactive way. The Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) included course material, videos, case studies, role play, 3D simulations, and branching scenarios. After completing the course, each student would be able to interact with persons with disabilities (whether friends, colleagues, or clients), understand diversity and inclusion, become a pioneer in creating a welcoming inclusive environment, empower inclusive environments, and obtain a 5-year valid certificate acknowledge by the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). To learn more about the courses paving your way to a more inclusive mindset visit https://proabledacademy.com/.

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