From left to right in the back row, Ms. Yamamoto Saeko, Ms. Fujihara Aika, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Ms. Komahashi Rie, Mr. Sammy Carolus, Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen and a male trainee.  From left to right in the front row, Mr. Pongsawat Wongsakthaworn, Ms. Ichigi Akari, Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair), a male trainee, a female trainee and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach 

From left to right, Ms. Ichigi Akari, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat and Ms. Fujihara Aika

APCD representatives (facing the camera) and Mr. Sammy Carolus (right, facing the camera) speak with the JICA Thailand delegation (opposite them) and Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen (right, opposite them)

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (left, seated in a wheelchair) and Mr. Sammy Carolus (left) speak with Ms. Ichigi Akari (right) and Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen (right)

From left to right, Mr. Sammy Carolus, Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair) and a male trainee, both holding a rose together, and a male trainee holds a bucket of roses

From left to right, Ms. Yamamoto Saeko, Ms. Fujihara Aika, Ms. Ichigi Akari, Mr. Sammy Carolus and Ms. Komahashi Rie

From left to right, Ms. Fujihara Aika, Ms. Yamamoto Saeko, Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen with Mr. Pongsawat Wongsakthaworn (background) and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (in front of everyone, seated in a wheelchair)

From left to right, Mr. Sammy Carolus, Ms. Komahashi Rie, Ms. Ichigi Akari, Ms. Fujihara Aika, and Ms. Yamamoto Saeko

Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen (left) receives a gift from Ms. Komahashi Rie (right)

Mr. Pongsawat Wongsakthaworn (left) receives a gift from Ms. Komahashi Rie (right)
 

JICA Thailand Visits Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit to Follow Up on APCD’s Disability Internship Program

On 9 July 2026, representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency Thailand Office (JICA Thailand) visited Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit to follow up on the progress of trainees participating in the 6th Vocational Training Program for Persons with Disabilities in Food & Hospitality and to exchange views on promoting disability-inclusive employment.

The JICA Thailand delegation comprised Ms. Komahashi Rie, Senior Representative; Ms. Ichigi Akari, Representative; Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Project Officer; Ms. Fujihara Aika, Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (JOCV); and Ms. Yamamoto Saeko, Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (JOCV).

The delegation was welcomed by Mr. Sammy Carolus, General Manager; Mr. Narinthon Jaiyen, Director of Human Resources; and Mr. Pongsawat Wongsakthaworn, Learning Manager, of Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit. Representatives from the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) included Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun, Manager of the Information & Knowledge Management Department; Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of APCD 60+ Plus Projects; Mr. Krittapol Chamrasromran, Communications and Administrative Support Officer of the Information & Knowledge Management Department; and Ms. Isabella Gacono, APCD Intern.

During the visit, the participants observed the workplace performance and learning progress of persons with disabilities undertaking internships at the hotel. The visit highlighted the importance of practical workplace experience in strengthening vocational skills, building confidence, and enhancing readiness for meaningful employment in the hospitality industry.

The visit also provided a valuable opportunity for JICA Thailand, Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, and APCD to exchange knowledge and experiences while further strengthening collaboration in promoting Disability-Inclusive Business (DIB) and expanding inclusive employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

APCD sincerely appreciates the continued support and collaboration of JICA Thailand and Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit in advancing disability-inclusive development. APCD looks forward to strengthening these partnerships and continuing to work together toward creating a more inclusive society with equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
 

Participants pose for a group photo

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, delivers a congratulatory speech to the trainees

Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana, delivers a congratulatory speech to the trainees

Mr. Piroon Laismit (left) and Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul (right) pose for a photo

The trainees pose for a group photo

Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul (left) and Mr. Piroon Laismit (right) pose for a photo while seated

Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul (left) presents a certificate to a trainee wearing a purple T-shirt (right) as they pose for a photo

Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul (left) presents a certificate to a trainee wearing a yellow T-shirt (right) as they pose for a photo

Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul (left) presents a certificate to a trainee wearing a yellow T-shirt (right) as they pose for a photo

Mr. Piroon Laismit (left) talks to the trainees while holding a teacup
 

APCD and Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana Hold Certificate Presentation Ceremony for the Internship Phase of the 6th Vocational Training Program for Persons with Disabilities in Food & Hospitality

On 8 July 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in collaboration with Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana, held a Certificate Presentation Ceremony for participants who successfully completed the internship phase of the 6th Vocational Training Program for Persons with Disabilities in Food & Hospitality.

The ceremony was officially opened by Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, and Ms. Kanchana Ruangsiriwichayakul, General Manager of Centara Life Government Complex Hotel & Convention Centre Chaeng Watthana, who congratulated the participants on their successful completion of the program and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in promoting inclusive employment and expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The internship program, which commenced in May 2026, provided participants with practical workplace experience in the hospitality industry. Through on-the-job training, participants enhanced their vocational competencies, gained valuable professional experience, and strengthened their readiness for future employment.

The certificate presentation ceremony marked the successful completion of the internship phase and reflected the continued collaboration between APCD and Centara Hotels & Resorts in supporting vocational skills development and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities. The program also demonstrates the important role of partnerships between the disability and hospitality sectors in fostering disability-inclusive workplaces and promoting equal opportunities.

APCD extends its sincere appreciation to Centara Hotels & Resorts for its continued partnership and commitment to advancing disability-inclusive development through vocational training and employment initiatives. APCD looks forward to further strengthening this collaboration to create sustainable career pathways and greater opportunities for persons with disabilities.

From left to right, Mr. Thanawat Deesawat, Mr. Chusak Chantayanon, service users, Mr. Yong Sulaiman, Mr. Pramote Thammasaroch, staff member, Mr. Krittapol Chamrasromran, and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair in front Mr. Yong Sulaiman) pose for a group photo

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (left, seated in a wheelchair) talks with Mr. Chusak Chantayanon (center) and Mr. Yong Sulaiman (right)

Service user paints picture

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (right, seated in a wheelchair) talks with Mr. Angkru Chongsthapornsuk (center), staff member (left) and Mr. Pramote Thammasaroch (standing behind a staff member) 

A staff member demonstrates his work to visitors

A staff member works on a computer

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (center, seated in a wheelchair) and Mr. Pramote Thammasaroch (standing behind Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun) attend a Thai language class for persons with autism

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (left, seated in a wheelchair) and Mr. Krisana Lalai (right, seated in a wheelchair) talk with staff members

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (left, seated in a wheelchair) listening to staff providing information art works made by persons with autism

From left to right, Mr. Pramote Thammasaroch, Mr.Krittapol Chamrasromran, Mr. Thanawat Deesawat, Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair), Ms. Thitirat Chanthayanon, Mr. Chusak Chantayanon, and Ms. Kitchaporn Chuenboon
 

APCD Team Visits Autistic Thai Foundation to Learn About Capacity-Building Programs for Persons with Autism

Bangkok, 8 July 2026 — A team from the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) paid a visit to the Autistic Thai Foundation to observe and learn about the Foundation's initiatives in promoting capacity building for persons with autism.

The APCD delegation was warmly welcomed by Mr. Chusak Chantayanon, President of the Autistic Thai Foundation, together with Mr. Pramote Thammasaroch, who accompanied the team throughout the visit and provided an overview of the Foundation's ongoing work.

During the visit, the APCD team had the opportunity to observe the Foundation's art program, an initiative that encourages and supports persons with autism in creating their own original artworks. The program aims to foster self-expression, build confidence, and develop practical skills, while also providing a platform through which the artistic talents of persons with autism can be recognized and celebrated.

The visit further highlighted the diverse potential of persons with autism, who demonstrated their abilities across several areas, including the use of art and design supported by AI systems, as well as computer-based learning and teaching tools. These technologies are helping to open new avenues for creative expression and skills development among persons with autism.

The visit reflects APCD's continued commitment to strengthening collaboration with local organizations working to advance the rights, skills, and opportunities of persons with disabilities, including persons with autism, across the Asia-Pacific region.

From left to right, Ms. Nitwari Sikon, Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat (left) and Mr. Piroon Laismit (right), both holding a gift together and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair in front of Ms. Nitwari Sikon)

From left to right, Ms. Nitwari Sikon, Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat, Mr. Piroon Laismit and Ms. Wilailekha Somprach

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, speaks during the discussion

Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat, Learning Manager, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel speaks during the discussion

Ms. Nitwari Sikon, Learning Officer, Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel listening to the discussion

Ms. Wilailekha Somprach, Manager of 60+ Plus project, listening to the discussion

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (center, seated in a wheelchair) guides Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat (left) and Ms. Nitwari Sikon (right) to the APCD office

From left to right, Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat, Ms. Nitwari Sikon, and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair) taste chocolate

Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (left, seated in a wheelchair) guides Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat (center) and Ms. Nitwari Sikon (right) to the 60+ Plus Kitchen

Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat (right) and Ms. Nitwari Sikon (left) listenng to head baker provides information about 60+ Plus Bakery
 

Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel Visits APCD to Explore Future Collaboration on Disability Inclusion

On 6 July 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) welcomed representatives from Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel for a courtesy visit to discuss potential areas of collaboration and strengthen partnership in advancing disability-inclusive development.

The delegation was led by Ms. Kingkarn Siriwat, Learning Manager, and Ms. Nitwari Sikon, Learning Officer, of Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel. The representatives were warmly welcomed by Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, who introduced APCD’s mission and ongoing initiatives while leading discussions on opportunities for future collaboration.

During the visit, the representatives toured APCD’s Accessible Building / Universal Design, which provides accessible accommodation for participants attending APCD training programs. They also visited the APCD 60+ Plus Bakery and Chocolate Café and the APCD 60+ Plus Kitchen to learn about APCD’s initiatives in vocational skills development, inclusive employment, and sustainable livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity for both organizations to exchange knowledge and explore collaborative approaches to promoting accessibility, disability inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

APCD sincerely appreciates the visit and the interest shown by Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel in supporting disability-inclusive development. APCD looks forward to further strengthening this partnership and working together to promote a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.
 

Participants pose for a group photo with their certificates upon completing the Job Coach Training, marking their achievement and commitment to supporting disability-inclusive employment.

Ms. Cai Cai, Chief, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Section, Social Development Division, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, delivers welcoming remarks via a recorded video message during the opening program.

Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, delivers welcoming remarks to participants at the opening program. 

Ms. Pinya Chamroonsat, Deputy Director-General, DEP, delivers the opening remarks at the opening program.

Participants engage in group discussions to exchange experiences and explore practical approaches to Job Coaching.

Mr. Kevin Cook shares practical knowledge and international experience in Job Coaching to support disability-inclusive employment.

Ms. Jaruwan Ngampisutpaisan, Senior Vice President - Human Resources, Central Restaurants Group (CRG), shares business perspectives on disability-inclusive employment and creating inclusive workplaces.

Participants take part in role-play activities to practice key skills required for effective Job Coaching.

Participants engage in ice-breaking activities to build connections and foster a positive learning environment.

APCD, DEP, and ESCAP Launched Job Coach Training to Strengthen Disability-Inclusive Employment in Thailand.
The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), in collaboration with the Department for Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEP) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), successfully organized a five-day Job Coach Training from 29 June to 3 July 2026 in Bangkok. The training was conducted under the Disability-Inclusive Employment and Business (DIEB) project, which aims to strengthen disability-inclusive employment in Thailand through the development of a Job Coach system.
The opening ceremony featured welcoming remarks by Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD, and Ms. Cai Cai, Chief of the Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Section at ESCAP. The training was officially opened by Ms. Pinya Chamroonsat, Deputy Director-General of the DEP.
The five-day training program commenced with a session on the project overview, including Result 1 and Result 2, presented by Mr. Somchai Rungsilp. The training was delivered and facilitated by Mr. Kevin Cook, an international Job Coach expert with extensive experience in supported employment and job coaching in the United States. Throughout the five-day program, participants engaged in lectures, group discussions, practical exercises, and role-play activities designed to strengthen both their understanding of Job Coaching principles and their ability to apply them in real workplace settings.
Fifteen participants representing a wide range of organizations from 4 regions of Thailand took part in the training, including the Association for Disabled in the Southern Border Provinces, Steps Community, Yardfon Center for Empowerment and Vocational Development for Persons with Disabilities (Chiang Mai Province), Social Innovation Foundation, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Thai Family Link Association, Siam University, Rajanukul Institute, Disabilities Thailand, the Association of Parents of Persons with Intellectual Disability of Thailand and APCD. By enhancing the capacity of Job Coaches, the initiative contributes to creating more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable employment opportunities for persons with disabilities across the country.

A group photo includes Ms. Prinda Khusakul (second person form the left of the row), Dr. Tej Bunnag (the middle of the row), Mr. Piroon Laismit (third person from the right of the row), Mr. Somchai Rungsilp (second person from the right of the row), and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (at front and seated in a wheelchair)

Dr. Tej Bunnag (left) tries on assistive glasses for persons with disabilities

Mr. Piroon Laismit (left) and Dr. Tej Bunnag (in front of Mr. Piroon Laismit) listening to staff providing information about assistive devices for persons with disabilities

A demonstration of artificial hands for persons with disabilities

Dr. Tej Bunnag (left) observes a guide robot designed for persons with visual impairments

A staff member (center) introduces products made by persons with disabilities to Dr. Tej Bunnag (left)

Movie posters featuring actors with disabilities 

Dr. Tej Bunnag (center), Mr. Piroon Laismit (left), and Mr. Somchai Rungsilp (left, in the background) observe products made by persons with disabilities

From right to left, Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Mr. Piroon Laismit, and Dr. Tej Bunnag observe a staff member (center) demonstrating physical therapy for persons with disabilities

Dr. Tej Bunnag (right) observe a staff member (center) demonstrating physical therapy for persons with disabilities

APCD Studies Disability Service Models, Rehabilitation Practices, Skills Development Programmes, and Assistive Technology Innovations in Beijing, China

From 22–24 June 2026, a delegation from the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), led by Dr. Tej Bunnag, President of APCD Foundation; Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD; Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Manager, Community Development Department; and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun, Manager, Information & Knowledge Management, visited Beijing, People’s Republic of China, to exchange knowledge and study disability service models, rehabilitation practices, skills development programmes, and innovative assistive technologies that promote disability-inclusive development.

APCD extends its sincere appreciation to H.E. Mr. Chatchai Viriyavejakul, Ambassador; Mr. Varapote Chensavasdijai, Minister, Deputy Chief of mission; Mrs. Duansib Padmasundara Cullen, Minister-Counsellor; and Ms. Prinda Khusakul, Second Secretary, of the Royal Thai Embassy, Beijing, for their generous support, invaluable assistance, and close cooperation in facilitating this visit.

As part of the programme, the APCD delegation visited the Beijing Demonstration Center of Service for Persons with Disabilities, where they were warmly welcomed by Mr. Xie Yanzhi, Deputy Party Secretary of the Beijing Disabled Persons Federation, Vice Chairman, First-Level Inspector; Mr. Yang Zhiqiang, Director, Beijing Demonstration Center of Service for Persons with Disabilities; and Ms. Fu Xiaoxu, Deputy Director, Beijing Demonstration Center of Service for Persons with Disabilities.

During the visit, the delegation received an overview of the Center’s disability service system and toured its adult rehabilitation programmes, gaining insights into rehabilitation services, service policies and outcomes of the China Disabled Persons’ Federation (CDPF), as well as rehabilitation programmes designed for persons with spinal cord injuries to develop independent living skills and improve their quality of life. The delegation also observed multidisciplinary rehabilitation approaches focusing on physical recovery, functional independence, and community reintegration.

The delegation further visited a variety of skills development and participation programmes for persons with disabilities, where they observed activities in visual arts, drumming, and performing arts designed to foster creativity, self-expression, confidence, and social inclusion. The programmes also support persons with disabilities in developing their talents while promoting independent living and active participation in society.

In addition, the delegation explored China’s innovative approaches to disability inclusion through demonstrations of assistive technologies and rehabilitation innovations, including robotic hand devices for upper-limb rehabilitation and vision-assistive smart glasses designed to enhance mobility and independence for persons with visual impairments. These innovations illustrated the important role of technology in improving accessibility, rehabilitation outcomes, and quality of life for persons with disabilities.

Throughout the visit, the delegation also learned about China’s disability service programmes in areas such as assistive technology, vocational training, inclusive education support, employment promotion, and Community-based Rehabilitation (CBR) / Community-based Inclusive Development (CBID), highlighting practical approaches that promote empowerment of persons with disabilities.
The study visit served as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and mutual learning. The experiences, innovative practices, and service models observed during the visit will contribute to APCD’s continued efforts to promote disability-inclusive development, expand opportunities for skills development and independent living, and advance equal opportunities and full participation for persons with disabilities across the Asia-Pacific region.
 

A group photo was taken of the Asia-Pacific session, including participants, the DET facilitators, organizers from APCD and JICA.

The sessions began with opening remarks by Mr. Naoaki Miyata, Deputy Director General and Group Director for Higher Education and Social Security Group.

Mr. Fariz Abd Rani, Senior DET Facilitator from Malaysia, leading the Action Plan Activity with participants. 
 

APCD successfully launched the Disability Equality Training (DET) Online Course for JICA National Staff in Asia Pacific Region

On 18 June 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), with the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Headquarters, implemented the 2026 Program: DET Online Course for JICA National Staff in Country Regions. The program is conducted in two groups. The first group is for JICA national staff from Asia and the Pacific, while the second group will be held on 17 September 2026 for participants from Africa, Central and Eastern Europe.
The session for officially commenced with opening remarks delivered by Mr. Naoaki Miyata, Deputy Director General, and Group Director for Higher Education and Social Security Group, Human Development Department, JICA. Mr. Miyata emphasized JICA’s commitment to disability inclusion and the agency's approach based around four essential pillars: establishing accurate Data Collection to expose hidden barriers; building Enabling Environments that favor a social model of accessibility over a medical one; providing Reasonable Accommodation through individual dialogue; and ensuring Meaningful Participation by embedding inclusion into every phase of the project lifecycle.
The main session was hosted by Mr. Fariz Abd Rani, Senior DET Facilitator, and accompanied by Ms. Nayfeh Kurdi, Senior DET Facilitator. The session, including 15 participants, fostered active participation, deep reflection, and collaborative learning around disability inclusion concepts, lived experiences, and practical development strategies. By the end of the training, participants had deepened their understanding of disability inclusion and concrete action plans to build more accessible, equitable, and inclusive workplaces.
 

From left to right, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke, Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki (left) and Mr. Piroon Laismit (right), both holding a gift together, Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair in front of Mr. Somchai Rungsilp), and Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat pose for a group photo

JICA representatives (left) discuss with APCD representatives (right)

Mr. Piroon Laismit (center) speaks during the meeting while Mr. Somchai Rungsilp (left) and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (right) listen attentively

From left to right, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki, and Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke participate in the meeting

Mr. Somchai Rungsilp (center) speaks during the meeting while Mr. Piroon Laismit (right) listen attentively

Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke (center) and Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki (left) listen attentively 

Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat (center) listen attentively 

Mr. Piroon Laismit (right) provides information about APCD 60+ Bakery and Chocolate Café to Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki (left) and Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke in the background

Mr. Piroon Laismit (center) provides information about APCD 60+ Bakery and Chocolate Café to Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki (left) and Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke (right)

Mr. Piroon Laismit (center) together with Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki (right) and Mr. SAKUDO (right side of Mr. Piroon Laismit) order beverages at APCD 60+ Bakery and Chocolate Café

From left to right, Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke, Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki, Mr. Piroon Laismit, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair in front of Mr. Piroon Laismit) pose for a group photo

From left to right, Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke, Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki, Mr. Piroon Laismit, Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, and Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun (seated in a wheelchair in the center) pose for a group photo
 

JICA Visits APCD to Strengthen Partnership and Promote Disability-Inclusive Development

On 1 July 2026, the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) welcomed a delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for a courtesy visit to further strengthen the longstanding partnership between the two organizations and discuss future collaboration in advancing disability-inclusive development across the Asia-Pacific region.

The JICA delegation was led by Mr. KOBAYASHI Hiroyuki, Senior Vice President, JICA; Mr. SAKUDO Shunsuke, Chief Representative, JICA Thailand Office; and Ms. Nuntaporn Sittidetboripat, Program Officer, JICA Thailand Office.

The delegation was welcomed by Mr. Piroon Laismit, Executive Director of APCD; Mr. Somchai Rungsilp, Manager, Community Development Department; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjittipun, Manager, Information & Knowledge Management; and Ms. Siriporn Praserdchat, Logistics Officer.

During the visit, both organizations exchanged views on future areas of cooperation and reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting disability-inclusive development, accessibility, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

The JICA delegation also visited the APCD 60+ Bakery and Chocolate Café, where they learned about the project’s approach to promoting inclusive employment through vocational skills development and sustainable livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The visit reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between APCD and JICA and reflected the shared commitment of both organizations to advancing disability-inclusive development and fostering a more inclusive society where no one is left behind.