The Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) in Thailand hosted the International Symposium on Digital Inclusion on November 2nd and 3rd, 2023. The symposium aimed to promote the use of technology and digital platforms to enhance the rights and equality of persons with disabilities.
Clinical Professor Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, Chairman of the NBTC, along with Mr. Torpong Selanon, NBTC Commissioner, and Mr. Trairat Viriyasirikul, Deputy Secretary-General and Acting Secretary-General of the Office of the NBTC, presided over the Opening Ceremony of the International Symposium on Digital Inclusion held at the Eastin Grand Hotel on November 2, 2023.
This event signifies the NBTC's commitment to advancing and supporting the rights of persons with disabilities through technology, with a particular emphasis on strengthening the Thai telecommunications network to facilitate and promote new innovations designed to assist persons with disabilities, including assistive technologies. These technologies encompass access to broadcasting and television services such as Audio Description (AD), Closed Captions (CC), and Sign Language (SL). The International Symposium on Digital Inclusion marks a significant milestone in manifesting the NBTC's dedication to fostering equality and inclusivity for all members of society.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Mr. Monthian Buntan, Member of the Senate of the Royal Thai Government and former United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and Ms. Saowalak Thongkuay, Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Year 2021-2024) at the United Nations, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) in Japan and The Office of Communications (Ofcom) in the United Kingdom, alongside distinguished guests from various countries, both from the public and private sectors.
Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck underscored the importance of supporting accessibility for people with disabilities, stating, "Noting that at some point in life, everyone may encounter periods of disability. Consequently, providing accessibility support is not merely a concern for those with disabilities; it is a collective responsibility that encompasses all of us."
The International Symposium on Digital Inclusion took place over two days, from November 2 to November 3, 2023. The event featured discussions on Assistive Technology aimed at enhancing the quality of life for persons with disabilities, enabling them to reach their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. It also focused on the significance of championing the rights of persons with disabilities and fostering collaboration with various sectors, including international organisations, multinational agencies, governments, the private sector, and civil society, to advance accessibility for persons with disabilities.