Equal opportunity of employment for the Differently Abled
When it comes to finding adequate employment opportunities, candidates who are differently-abled experience difficulties in finding a suitable job and a supportive environment. SIPS, a division of Siemens, has undertaken an initiative to provide an equal opportunity for employment to this needy section of the society, without discriminating them on their disabilities.
To begin with, SIPS in co-ordination with Ability Foundation, an NGO, invites candidates who are physically challenged or hearing impaired to post their resumes. The applicants go through an online assessment test that will help evaluate the Candidate’s Aptitude and English Language skills. The job aspirants are not given any special consideration or treatment and this ensures that they feel – they are as competent as the other candidates.
Lakshmi, an employee who is hearing impaired and works on the online transaction process reflects on her SIPS experience “ I am very happy to be part of Siemens. All my colleagues are very nice to me and my trainers pay special attention – so that I can understand the process very well. No one treats me differently and my parents are also very happy with my progress.”
When a candidate is hired by SIPS, Ability Foundation takes an audit of the work facilities, which include the provision of a special ramp to ensure ease in mobility and specially designed restrooms. SIPS presently employs 45 personnel who are differently abled. They comprise graduates from different streams like commerce, science and engineering – and are hired for processes like Transaction, Finance and Accounting. Their dedication and commitment towards their responsibility sets an example within SIPS for the others to follow.