At a recent workshop on inclusivity in the workplace, the Solomon Islands construction sector heard powerful stories from people with disabilities working in infrastructure and about how inclusive workplaces have helped them earn an income and make valuable contributions to society.
The workshop was delivered under Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program Workforce Skills Series, helping to upskill the local construction sector.
Dereck Kolly was working as a Senior Estimator with local construction company Hatanga Limited when diabetes led to an amputation and needing a wheelchair. With the support of his employer, he has continued to work from home, successfully helping them to tender for and deliver construction projects around the country.
“Inclusion is about recognising and understanding the limitations of people with disabilities, and embracing the difference,” Mr Kolly said.
He said the installation of home internet and mobile top ups allows him to join meetings and stay informed. Hatanga have also provided him with a wheelchair and transportation.
“My job is very demanding and I’m glad that Hatanga has recognised and values my strengths.”
Australian High Commissioner HE Rod Hilton said Australia continued to champion the rights of people with disabilities both at home and in Solomon Islands.
“Whether it’s infrastructure, education, health or sports, we’re working to make things more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities, so that they can live with dignity, earn an income, and participate in their community.”
Ben Esibaea, a local tiler with a hearing and speech impairment, presented at the workshop with the support of a sign language interpreter. He said that although people see him as a deaf person with a disability, he has the ability, talent and skills to work.
“We are equal to those who can do the work,” Mr Esibaea said.
All infrastructure projects currently supported under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership are assessed for inclusion, for example:
- including people with disabilities in infrastructure project planning
- ensuring infrastructure is accessible for people with disabilities, for example, including access ramps or providing lower, wheelchair friendly stalls at new market houses
- supporting contractors to have plans and policies to include people with disabilities in their workplace.
“It’s vital that the economic development of Solomon Islands includes everyone,” Mr Hilton said.
“Through the training and mentoring providing by our Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program, we’re supporting local companies to take the lead in quality, inclusive, safe and sustainable infrastructure projects around the country.”
This was the 13th Workforce Skills Series training, with valuable contributions from the Disabled Peoples’ Association of Solomon Islands. The training also covered the laws and policies of Solomon Islands that support the rights of people with disabilities.
Recent research by Australia’s Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program has documented the opportunities for the employment of more people with disabilities in Solomon Islands infrastructure – which can be downloaded from siip.com.sb
