A progressive initiative aimed at fostering inclusivity in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry was officially launched, marking a pivotal step toward integrating persons with disabilities into the workforce. Dubbed Inclusive Threads, the program highlights the collective power of public-private collaboration to create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Led by Better Work Sri Lanka, the initiative is a partnership between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), supported by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). The program seeks to enhance vocational training centers, equip employers and workers with practical tools, and promote accessibility and inclusivity throughout the industry.
Yohan Lawrence, Secretary-General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), expressed the apparel sector’s strong commitment to the initiative: “Diversity and inclusion are essential pillars of a sustainable and progressive apparel industry. With Inclusive Threads, we have a chance to break down barriers and unlock the potential of persons with disabilities, ensuring their meaningful participation in the workforce. Together, we can lead by example and create a truly inclusive workplace that reflects the best of Sri Lanka’s values and ingenuity.”
The program also garnered strong support from Darshani Karunarathne, Director of the Department of Social Services, who underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships: “The active participation of the private sector is indispensable for increasing employability and creating a more inclusive job market for persons with disabilities.”
ILO Country Director Joni Simpson highlighted the broader global implications of the initiative, stating that it aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD): “Our collective efforts can drive meaningful change and ensure equal opportunities for all in the labour market.”
Vajira Ellepola, Director General of the Employers Federation of Ceylon, also emphasized the importance of recognizing the untapped potential of individuals with disabilities. “This is not just a step toward inclusivity—it’s a leap toward innovation and creating a workforce that reflects our values of accessibility and diversity.”
The Inclusive Threads initiative represents a promising future for Sri Lanka’s apparel sector, where opportunities are accessible to all. By raising awareness, fostering inclusivity, and offering practical training pathways, the program ensures that persons with disabilities are empowered to contribute meaningfully to the industry’s growth.
This partnership signals the industry’s ongoing commitment to driving not just economic success but also social progress, further embedding equality and opportunity within the core
of Sri Lanka’s thriving apparel sector.
