Group Photo of Session Participants and resource persons from DEP and APCD.

Ms. Noppharat Bunnak, APCD Disability Inclusive Business’s Accounting Officer, demonstrated daily routine sign language.

Participants practiced Thai Sign Language the daily lives words actively in the session.

APCD, in collaboration with DEP conducted Sign Language Session for UNESCO Staff, at UNESCO Regional Office, Bangkok

On 10 September 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in partnership with Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) and UNESCO Bangkok Office, organized a short session on Sign Language in commemoration of International Day of Sign Languages at UNESCO Office. Participants included twelve diverse UNESCO Staff. Session facilitators consist of Ms. Prim Kaewpradub, International Relations Officer and Mr. Warit Payaksiri, Assistant International Relations Officer from DEP as well as Ms. Noppharat Bunnak, Accounting Officer, Disability-Inclusive Business and Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol Networking & Collaboration Officer from APCD.

This session provides a comprehensive guide aimed at fostering inclusivity, awareness, and better communication within the workplace and broader community. The session opens by introducing Deaf Culture, exploring its distinct identity, core values, and community structure to build a foundation of empathy and cultural understanding. It then transitions into Challenges to Action, addressing common societal barriers, misconceptions, and practical steps organizations can take to create more accessible environments.

Participants are introduced to Basic Sign Language, gaining hands-on practice with practical signs designed for everyday interactions. To bridge theory and reality, the presentation features Lived Experiences, sharing personal narratives and real-world insights into the daily lives and perspectives of Deaf individuals. The session concludes with an interactive Q&A, offering an open space for participants to clarify doubts, discuss key takeaways, and engage directly with the material.

Participants showed active participation throughout the session, with many expressing a deeper understanding to advance inclusion.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, delivered welcome remarks and provided background and APCD’s reginal activities to the delegation.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, delivered welcome remarks and provided background and APCD’s reginal activities to the delegation.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp presented APCD’s mandate, regional initiatives, and approaches to disability-inclusive development.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp presented APCD’s mandate, regional initiatives, and approaches to disability-inclusive development.

The Japanese delegation experienced APCD’s welcoming and inclusive workplace, where employees with and without disabilities worked together.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, Project Coordinator for the DIEB Project, led the delegation on a tour of APCD’s Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) initiatives at the 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, Project Coordinator for the DIEB Project, led the delegation on a tour of APCD’s Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) initiatives at the 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, Project Coordinator for the DIEB Project, led the delegation on a tour of APCD’s Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) initiatives at the 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP.

The Japanese delegation visited the Deaf Space at the APCD Training Center and learned how its design supported accessible sign language communication and interpretation.

Students and faculty members from Tokyo Woman’s Christian University joined Ms. Ichigi Akari, Representative of JICA Thailand Office, and the APCD Management & staff Team for a group photograph.

Field Study Visit to APCD by Tokyo Woman’s Christian University

On 7 September 2026, APCD welcomed 16 students and faculty members from Tokyo Woman’s Christian University, Japan, for a field study visit in collaboration with JICA Thailand Office.

The visit provided an opportunity for participants to learn about APCD’s mandate, regional activities, and approaches to promoting disability-inclusive development. Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, delivered the welcome remarks, followed by a briefing on APCD’s work by Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Community Development Manager.

Tokyo Woman’s Christian University, led by Professor Koji Makino and accompanied by Ms. Ichigi Akari, Representative of the JICA Thailand Office, visited APCD. The delegation, comprising students, professors, and faculty members, visited APCD’s Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) initiatives at the 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP (Charoen Pokphand Group), one of the Thailand’s largest private companies. They also explored the accessible facilities at the APCD Administration and Training Buildings.

The delegation had the opportunity to observe practical examples of DIB and conducted an interview with the chef of Thai Yamazaki Bakery who is working at APCD 60 plus Bakery by Thai Yamazaki. The interview provided insights into how workplaces can support employees with disabilities, address workplace challenges, and create an inclusive working environment for persons with different types of disabilities.

The program concluded with a knowledge exchange session, allowing participants to share reflections and lessons learned and exchange ideas on disability development. The visit concluded with a Q&A and exchange of views on inclusive development from both academic and practical perspectives. APCD appreciated the valuable opportunity to share experiences and promote continued collaboration with Tokyo Woman’s Christian University.

Program Completion group photo: Participants showed their certificates with TICA, JICA, APCD representatives and English – Thai interpreters and Sri Lankan sign language interpreter to celebrate the completion of the training course at the closing ceremony.

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp led the learners’ conference session and outlined the activities for the second week of the training, including a job fair at the Government Complex organized by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS), as well as the purpose and expected outcomes of developing the Action Plans from the training.

A group picture which participants visited a DEP job fair for persons with disabilities. DEP, MSDHS and APCD staff guided the tour, and participants discussed workability and inclusive design with exhibitors.

Japanese DIEB expert Ms. Emi Aizawa introduced three tools that supported active learning.

Ms. Emi Aizawa shared Mirairo’s “Barrier Value” story and explained how President and CEO Toshiya Kakiuchi turned disability-related barriers into value through leadership and commitment.

Ms. Emi Aizawa shared Mirairo’s “Barrier Value” story and explained how President and CEO Toshiya Kakiuchi turned disability-related barriers into value through leadership and commitment.

Ms. Emi Aizawa and APCD staff moderated a hybrid session with Mr. Yukio Ida of KOKUYO Co., Ltd., who presented the company’s DIEB inclusive design practices in Japan.

Participants from India discussed exercises in the TCTP 2026 workbook.

Participants from Indonesia discussed DIEB leadership and belief and shared national experiences.

Participants from Nepal actively reviewed the country mapping displays and offered feedback.

Participants from Sri Lanka discussed their country about DIEB situation and summarized key findings.

Participants from Viet Nam presented their country mapping and current DIEB situation.

Participants from Thailand discussed the country’s DIEB situation with Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit from APCD, who supported and facilitated the discussion by sharing relevant insights and experiences.

Participants enjoyed Walk Rally where groups rotate through checkpoint stations.

Mr. Grant Javier from the Philippines presented his Action Plan for advancing DIEB in the Philippines. Participants from India, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam also presented their respective Country Action Plans.

Mr. Somchai displayed participants’ written commitments to advance DIEB in their countries during the networking and collaboration session to strengthened participants’ commitment to promoting DIEB.

Participants from Sri Lanka reviewed the two-week program and provided feedback on its content and logistics.

Ms. Aarushi Gambhir, a participant from India, delivered the participants’ concluding remarks on the TCTP 2026 DIEB training as a representative of the participants during the closing ceremony on 4 September 2026.

Ms. Emi Aizawa delivered feedback of the training course and encouraged participants to apply their learning in their countries.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, APCD Executive Director, delivered the closing remarks and comments on future directions on DIEB for this region.

Ms. Ichigi Akari of JICA Thailand Office congratulated participants and reaffirmed support for disability mainstreaming in the region at the closing remarks.

Ms. Pin Sridurongkatum of TICA congratulated participants, thanked JICA and APCD, and reaffirmed support for an inclusive society.

Ms. Pin Sridurongkatum presented certificates to Indonesian participants.

Ms. Pin presented certificates to Philippine participants.

Ms. Ichigi Akari presented certificates to Thailand participants.

Ms. Ichigi Akari presented certificates to Vietnam participants.

Ms. Ichigi Akari presented certificates to Indian participants.

Ms. Emi Aizawa presented certificates to Nepali participants.

Ms. Emi Aizawa presented certificates to participants from Sri Lanka.

Another group photo was taken after the closing ceremony, with participants proudly showing their completion certificates alongside representatives from TICA, JICA, and APCD, as well as Thai–English and sign language interpreters. The photo reflected the participants’ commitment to taking the next steps in advancing DIEB in their respective countries and strengthening regional networks and collaboration on DIEB.

The second week of TCTP 2026 Strengthened Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business Across Asia and the Pacific.

The Third Country Training Program (TCTP) 2026 course, “Enhancing Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) in Asia and the Pacific,” organized 32 participants with disabilities, participants without disabilities, and personal assistants from Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Viet Nam, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. APCD delivered the course in Bangkok from 23 August to 5 September 2026 with the cooperation of TICA and JICA.

During the second week, Japanese DIEB expert Ms. Emi Aizawa led case studies on the four DIEB pillars: Leadership, Enable, Work, and Design. Participants visited a job fair and explored topics including inclusive design, workability, digital accessibility, artificial intelligence, and business value. They also developed Country Action Plans. Peer exchanges enabled participants to compare different approaches and identify ideas for local adaptation.

Participants presented their national action plans and evaluated the training. The session also provided an opportunity for networking and collaboration while strengthening participants’ commitment to promoting DIEB in their respective countries. Participants exchanged ideas, shared experiences, and expressed their commitment to applying the knowledge and approaches gained from the training in their local contexts.

Representatives from TICA, JICA, and APCD awarded certificates and delivered closing remarks. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to advancing DIEB through the knowledge, confidence, and regional networks they gained during the training. APCD staff saw the participants off on 5 September, and they have remained connected through social media and Google Chat.

Participants and APCD staff gathered for a group photo in the multipurpose meeting room of the APCD Training Building at the start of the study visit.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, welcomed the participants and opened the learning program with introductory remarks.

Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen introduced APCD’s mission, major activities, and regional work to advance disability inclusion.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, DIEB Project Coordinator, explained how APCD strengthened capacity and promoted employment and business opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol guided the visit as participants observed employees with disabilities performing bakery production tasks and learned about inclusive workplace practices.

During the APCD office tour, Mr. Thanawat Deesawat, Information and Knowledge Management Officer, demonstrated the chocolate packaging design process to the participants.

Participants joined Ms. Thorfan for a group photograph after they purchased APCD chocolate and bakery products in support of inclusive workplace initiatives.

Mr. Samrit Anupak, Head of Community Development, Inclusion and Social Affairs at Central Group, shared the company’s good practices and perspectives on sustainable development and disability inclusion.

A participant from Indonesia exchanged perspectives and discussed practical approaches to disability-inclusive employment and business.

Participants observed a barista demonstration by an employee with autism at Centara Life Government Complex Hotel. He previously completed APCD skills-development training that supported his workplace preparation.

The employee with autism prepared beverages from his own recipes and demonstrated the skills and confidence he developed in the workplace.

Mr. Kanin Tangtermphong, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel, outlined the hotel’s commitment and vision for advancing disability-inclusive employment and business.

Mr. Asdang Sukwises, General Manager of Centara Life Cha-Am Beach Resort Hua Hin, presented the hotel’s initiatives and described its collaboration with APCD to expand internships and employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Participants discussed the employment situation of persons with disabilities in Thailand and compared it with policies, experiences, and practices from their respective countries.

TCTP 2026 Field Study at APCD and experience a study case and good practice on DIEB by a Private Business Sector.

On 26 August 2026, morning, APCD welcomed participants of TCTP 2026 for a field study at APCD. The program introduced participants to APCD’s mission, work, and approaches to promoting disability inclusion and employment. Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, delivered the welcome remarks, followed by a presentation on APCD’s work and mission by Mr. Watcharapol Chuengcharoen, Chief of the Networking and Collaboration, Community Development Department.

Participants also learned about the Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) Project through a presentation by Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit, DIEB Project Coordinator, highlighting APCD’s efforts to strengthen capacity and promote employment and business opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The field study included an APCD’s Disability-Inclusive Business (DIB) Tour, with visits to the 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the 60+ Plus Kitchen by CP (Charoen Pokphand Group), Thailand’s largest private company. Participants had the opportunity to observe practical examples of DIEB in action.

The program concluded with a knowledge exchange session, allowing participants to share reflections and lessons learned and exchange ideas on advancing DIEB in their respective countries. Through the field study, APCD continues to promote regional cooperation, knowledge sharing, and inclusive and sustainable employment and business opportunities for individuals with disabilities across Asia and the Pacific.

In the afternoon, participants visited Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana, Bangkok, to learn good practices in DIEB. The hotel led by Mr. Kanin Tangtermphong, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel, Mr. Asdang Sukwises, General Manager of Centara Life Cha-Am Beach Resort Hua Hin, shared his experiences and practices in employing individuals with disabilities in the hotel industry. Mr. Samrit Anupak, Head of Community Development, Inclusion and Social Affairs, Central Group, also shared perspectives on sustainable development and disability inclusion.

Central Group is one of the largest and most powerful private commercial conglomerates in Thailand such as retail, real estate, hospitality, and digital lifestyle across Asia and Europe. Central Group’s approach to disability inclusion views employment under Sections 33 and 35 not merely as a legal obligation, but as a vital mission to build an inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive. The Group promotes inclusive employment through direct employment under Section 33 and supports self-reliance through space concessions, service contracts, and vocational support under Section 35.

Central Group also highlighted Good Goods, a contemporary craft brand under the “Central Tham” social enterprise, which creates local employment opportunities and reinvests its profits in community development while preserving Thai cultural heritage. Participants also had the opportunity to experience a barista demonstration by an employee with autism who is officially employed at Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre.

The study visits provided participants with practical insights into DIEB practices, while facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences on disability inclusion and sustainable development in Thailand.

Participants, resource persons, diplomatic representatives, and organizers gathered for the official group photo at the opening of TCTP 2026 DIEB at Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana, Bangkok.

Ms. Chidchanok Malayawong of TICA delivered opening remarks, highlighting TCTP as a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and development cooperation among countries.

Mr. Sakudo Shunsuke, Chief Representative of JICA Thailand Office, emphasized the growing business value of disability inclusion in driving innovation and expanding opportunities.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, welcomed participants and emphasized the role of inclusive business in achieving sustainable development and leaving no one behind.

Ms. Prim Kaewpradub, DEP officer on international cooperation section facilitated an interactive orientation session that promoted inclusive communication and active participation among all trainees.

Mr. Sawang Srisom, Thai resource person introduced Disability Equality Training (DET), encouraging participants to challenge stereotypes and better understand disability inclusion, barriers and barriers-free society.

Ms. Tingting Chen of UNESCAP shared regional trends, policy developments, and good practices in disability-inclusive employment and business.

Mr. Stefan Trömel of ILO presented global and regional perspectives on advancing disability-inclusive employment across Asia and the Pacific.

Mr. Yukio Ida of KOKUYO Co., Ltd. shared Japanese good practices and lessons learned in promoting assistive device design bring about workplace inclusion and accessibility.

Ms. Lee Hui Lin of SPD Singapore highlighted emerging trends and practical approaches to disability-inclusive employment in Singapore.

Panelists from Department and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and Social Innovation Foundation explored Thailand’s DIEB movement and discussed the roles of government, businesses, and civil society in advancing inclusive employment.

Guest speakers and moderators exchanged experiences on job coaching, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and inclusive employment initiatives in Thailand.

Vietnamese delegates presented their country report and shared national challenges, achievements, and opportunities related to DIEB.

Mr. Tran Van Ninh actively contributed to discussions by sharing practical experiences and responding to participants’ questions.

Ms. Maho Harada of JICA Headquarters provided expert reflections and constructive feedback during the Country Report Session.

Ms. Thorfan Dechachainimit facilitated a learning reflection session, helping participants translate key concepts into practical actions.

Participants from different countries collaborated in group discussions and role-play exercises to apply DIEB concepts to real-world situations.

Participants, resource persons, and organizers strengthened regional friendships& diner reception supported by TICA during the networking and cultural exchange evening along the Chao Phraya River.

A Group photo of participants, ambassador representatives from India, Philippines and Sri Lanka, TICA, JICA and APCD representatives.

Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat and sign language interpreters ensured accessible communication throughout the opening ceremony and training program.
 

TCTP 2026 Advanced Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business in Asia and the Pacific

The Third Country Training Program (TCTP) 2026 course, “Enhancing Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) in Asia and the Pacific,” brought together 32 participants with and without disabilities including their personal assistant (PA) from Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Viet Nam, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The program took place in Bangkok from 23 August to 5 September 2026. The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) delivered the course in cooperation with the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

During the first week, participants learned from UN agencies, government bodies, organizations of persons with disabilities, civil society groups, businesses, social enterprises, and experts from Thailand, Japan, USA and Singapore. Through lectures, panel discussions, workshops, hybrid sessions, and field visits, they explored disability rights, inclusive employment, job coaching, workplace accommodation, entrepreneurship, accessibility, mobility, and inclusive business. They also examined Thailand’s DIEB ecosystem and identified how supportive policies, committed leadership, inclusive organizational cultures, and cross-sector partnerships expanded sustainable opportunities for persons with disabilities.

During the second week, Japanese short-term Expert or Independent consultant on DIEB, Ms. Emi Aizawa facilitated Japanese case studies introduced the DIEB pillars of Belief, Enable, Work, and Design. Participants attended a job market fair, explored inclusive design, digital accessibility, artificial intelligence, and business value, and prepared Country Action Plans for their national contexts. Peer exchanges allowed them to compare approaches and identify practical ideas for local adaptation.

Participants left with clear takeaways: meaningful inclusion required designing with persons with disabilities, not for them; sustainable DIEB relied on shared responsibility and strong partnerships; accessibility supported innovation and business growth; and lasting progress depended on realistic action plans, local capacity, evidence, feedback, and consistent follow-up.

Mr. Piroon Laismit and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach receive the "Aroilert with Khunreed" seal of approval for the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen Project.

The program introduces viewers to the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen Project.

Behind the scenes of the filming of  Aroilert with Khunreed.

Ms. Rapeepan Luangaramrut, host of the program, showcases the best-selling products to viewers.

Ms. Rapeepan Luangaramrut, host of the show, presents the "Aroilert with Khunreed" seal of approval to the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Chocolate Project.

The production team is preparing the filming set.

Aroilert with Khunreed Filmed at APCD to Highlight the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery and Kitchen Projects

On 7 September 2026, Aroilert with Khunreed, a Thai food television program, visited the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) to film a feature highlighting the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery & Chocolate Project and APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen Project.

During the filming, the program featured and sampled a selection of food and bakery products prepared through the APCD 60+ Plus projects. The feature highlighted the vocational skills and work of persons with disabilities involved in the projects, as well as the opportunities created through vocational training and employment.

The filming included Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects, who shared information about the projects and the products developed through the projects.

The activity provided an opportunity to introduce the APCD 60+ Plus projects and the products developed through these initiatives to a wider audience, while highlighting APCD’s efforts to promote vocational skills development, employment opportunities, and disability-inclusive initiatives.

An online session for job coaches to share experiences, challenges, and ways to strengthen their work.

Mr. Kevin Cook, the Job Coach expert, DEP, and APCD representatives meeting and exchanging ideas in the sessions. 

A hybrid meeting connecting participants both in person and online to exchange ideas and work together.
 

DIEB Online Consultation Sessions

On 8 August and 4 September, 2026, APCD organized the online consultation sessions for job coaches trained under the Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business project in collaboration with UNESCAP and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. The session provided a space for the trained job coaches to share their experiences working as a job coach along with the challenges they encounter. The consultation also aims to gather information and requests from the job coaches in order to develop and strengthen the job coach system, ensuring the sustainable and effective promotion of disability employment in Thailand. Led by Mr. Kevin Cook, the Job Coach expert, with support from DEP and APCD partners, the session divided participants into three groups to capture their unique opportunities and challenges. The discussions provided valuable insights for strengthening ongoing support for job coaches and developing the Job Coach system in Thailand.