Islamabad, In a significant move to enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions, First Lady Begum Samina Alvi of Pakistan has called for universal access to assistive technology. This declaration was made during her keynote speech at an event on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum 2024. The event, titled “Unlock the Everyday: Advancing the SDGs through the Power of Assistive Technology,” focused on the importance of integrating assistive technology into national and global development plans.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the First Lady emphasized the critical role of assistive technology in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Assistive technology, which includes devices like wheelchairs, hearing aids, and digital aids, is essential for enabling education, employment, and social inclusion for people with special needs. “Unlock the Everyday” represents the first-ever global campaign on Assistive Technology (AT), aiming to raise awareness about the right to such technology for all individuals, irrespective of their geographic and socio-economic status.
Begum Samina Alvi urged global leaders to prioritize the inclusion of assistive technology in their national plans and SDG strategies. She highlighted the need for greater collaboration among technology experts, policymakers, and advocates worldwide. Furthermore, she called for increased investment from both public and private sectors in technologies that empower people.
The First Lady reinforced Pakistan’s commitment to creating an inclusive society and advancing the agenda of enhancing access to assistive technology. She proudly stated Pakistan’s leading role in advocating for assistive technology both regionally and globally. Her speech detailed Pakistan’s efforts at the global level, including proposing and adopting regional and global resolutions, hosting key events, launching the WHO Assistive Product List, and developing a regional strategic framework for assistive technology.
This keynote speech at the World Economic Forum marks a significant step in the global movement towards inclusivity and accessibility for all, reflecting Pakistan’s dedication to this cause.