First Lady Begum Samina Alvi has called for ensuring universal access to assistive technology for persons with disabilities, ageing population and for those who are suffering from non-communicable diseases.
She expressed these views during her keynote speech at an event themed "Unlock the everyday: advancing the SDGs through the power of Assistive Technology" on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos, Switzerland."Unlock the Everyday" is the first-ever global campaign on Assistive Technology (AT) that has been launched to raise awareness about everyone's right to AT- such as wheelchairs, glasses, hearing aids, prostheses and digital devices regardless of their geographic and socio-economic background.The First Lady urged global leaders to prioritize the integration of assistive technology in their national plans and Sustainable Development Goals strategies.Begum Samina Alvi said assistive technology is a critical tool for achieving SDGs as it could open up opportunities for education, employment, and inclusion in society for people with special needs.She called for greater collaboration among technology experts, policymakers, and advocates worldwide, besides urging the public and private sectors to invest in technologies that empower people.Begum Samina Alvi emphasized that Pakistan is committed to create an inclusive society and advancing the agenda of enhancing access to assistive technology.She said that Pakistan stands at the forefront of advocating for assistive technology, both within its region and on the global stage.She highlighted that Pakistan has made significant efforts at the global level to promote assistive technology 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.