Bangkok, 9 March 2026 — The Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD) conducted a workshop on "Basic Understanding of Colleagues with Disabilities" for staff of Central Pattana PCL (CPN) on 9 March 2026. The training welcomed participants both in the classroom and via online platform, reflecting CPN's commitment to building an inclusive and equitable workplace.

The workshop aimed to strengthen awareness and practical skills among CPN staff, empowering them to interact respectfully and effectively with colleagues and customers with disabilities in their day-to-day work environment.

The training was facilitated by a team of experienced APCD resource persons, all of whom bring lived experience of disability to their work. The team comprised Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, a person with Autism; Ms. Nongnuch Maytarjitipun, a person with a physical disability; Mr. Sunthorn Uchareon, a person with a visual disability; Mr. Panomkorn Prasitsuparoth, resource person; and Ms. Sirinan Kongcharoen, resource person assistant.

In-class participants included Miss Jitsupa Prachantasena (Food Park Service Partner), Mrs. Jiraporn Yingbamrung (Food Server), Miss Nanthikan Nilthong (Food Server, Hug Thai), Mr. Sukapat Kongphejchr (People Development Specialist), Miss Supattaree Mongkol (Food Park Service Partner, Hug Thai), Miss Ampawan Sasthong (Manager, People Communication and Branding), Miss Kanyarak Chuypitaks (Manager, Food Park), Miss Apaporn Phouthongsa (Manager, Office and Retail Operation, The 9th Tower), Mr. Phaiboon Cherykinput (Team Leader, Food Park), and Miss Kunjira Posinsomwong (HR Intern). Additional staff participated online.

Key topics covered during the workshop included the "Ask Me First" principle, which promotes respectful and empowering service; an overview of various disability types; practical communication and assistance techniques; simulated workplace scenarios; and safety and inclusion protocols.

The session concluded with an open discussion and experience-sharing among participants, reinforcing the importance of creating a truly inclusive, barrier-free, and dignified workplace for all.

This workshop is part of APCD's long-standing collaboration with Thailand's private sector, working to promote inclusive employment, equal opportunities, and disability-friendly workplaces across the region.