Study on employment of persons with disabilities in textile industry launched

AMMAN — The Jordanian Masarat Foundation for Development and Innovation launched a study on Wednesday titled "Industry as a Means of Inclusion — Employment of Persons with Disabilities in Textile and Garment Factories."

Minister of Labour Khaled Bakkar emphasised the importance of adopting a scientific approach in diagnosing sectorial issues, noting that any study must be based on accurate scientific principles. 

He expressed the ministry’s openness to research that can help address challenges within various sectors, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

Bakkar highlighted that the ministry established the "Better Work" department in 2020 in partnership with the International Labour Organisation to create safer working environments in the textile and garment sector, improve working conditions, and enhance sectorial competitiveness.

He also pointed out that the ministry provides a clear mechanism for submitting labour complaints through its Himaya (protection) platform, offering detailed reports and resolution processes for labour-related grievances. 

Executive Director of the Masarat Foundation Talal Ghneimat said that integrating persons with disabilities into the Jordanian labour market is not just a legal obligation but a national, social and ethical responsibility.

He noted that true sustainable development cannot occur without ensuring equal participation for all groups, including those with disabilities. 

Ghneimat also stressed the growing priority of integrating persons with disabilities into the workforce at the local and international levels. 

He highlighted that, while progress has been made in recent years, many individuals with disabilities still face significant challenges in securing decent employment opportunities. 

The study, conducted by Masarat Foundation, focused on the employment of persons with disabilities in the national textile sector, examining the challenges they face and assessing the availability of suitable workplace accommodations. 

Ghneimat called on businesses to establish inclusive work environments, adhere to laws protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, and raise public awareness about the contributions of people with disabilities to the national economy. 

The study’s recommendations included the development of vocational training programmes tailored to persons with disabilities, equipping them with the skills required by the labour market. 

It also emphasised the importance of ensuring their right to participate fully in society and adapting workplaces to meet their needs, including implementing health and safety measures. 

The study recommended organising workshops to raise awareness of the rights of workers with disabilities among employees and managers, particularly regarding the implementation of necessary accommodations. 

The study proposed improvements to the physical infrastructure of textile and garment factories, including the installation of accessible pathways and ramps for individuals with mobility impairments, as well as making adjustments to restrooms and other facilities to accommodate workers with disabilities.