Making innovation purpose-fit for an inclusive and accessible world

WITH the recently unveiled Forward Singapore 2023 report, the emphasis on the need for mutual support and assurance, transitioning from “social assistance” to “social empowerment” has never been stronger. The report summarises the nation’s strategy in building a more inclusive Singapore including those less fortunate and those with disabilities.

Disability is all around us. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 1.3 billion people – or 16 per cent of the global population – experience a significant disability today.

One of the often-overlooked communities is persons with intellectual disabilities (PWIDs) – otherwise known as the “invisible disability”. Oftentimes, this group encounters multifaceted challenges in areas such as education, employment, healthcare and social inclusion. As PWIDs graduate and transition from special education schools to enter the working world, they often find themselves with limited opportunities and at higher risk of social isolation.