A new approach to labour inclusion

To increase social inclusion POETA ("Partnership in Opportunities for Employment through Technology in the Americas") operates accessible centers to train people with disabilities in technology and vocational skills. In 2012, more than 1,500 allied companies also participated in awareness campaigns and activities.

Partnership in Opportunities for Employment through Technology in the Americas (POETA) Accessible centres increase social inclusion and improve competitiveness by providing technology and job-readiness training to persons with disabilities. Through a combination of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and Adaptive Technologies, POETA provides persons with disabilities with the necessary skills for improving their participation in the labour market and becoming more independent. POETA Accessible centres provide holistic, inclusive technological and professional training that increases job opportunities for people with disabilities. Challenges: Low education level of people with disabilities due to the lack of accessible public education opportunities Lack of certification for labour competencies Social barriers and misconception about disability Solutions: Demand mapping of the labour market to promote awareness of jobs suited to participants' educational background Established alliances with local enterprises, providing ICT training according to the needs of the community Support of local partners - more than 1,500 allied businesses participated in awareness campaigns and activities Positive impacts Recommendations for labour inclusion to the General Assembly of the Organization of American States A regional exchange of knowledge about job opportunities for people with disabilities through a website in which employers post their vacancies

Solution, Innovation and Impact

124,292 users 15,675 trained people 1,851 people employed

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

POETA began in Guatemala in 2004. The initiative has since expanded to 14 countries in Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, México, Panamá, Perú, Puerto Rico, República Dominicana and Venezuela.