Introduction to the CRPD Training in Thailand Association of the blind on 24 May 2025

Group photo of participants, resource persons and organizer

On May 24, 2025, from 09:00 to 16:00, Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol, Networking & Collaboration Officer, and Mr. Chayoot Homdee, Community Development Officer, both from the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD), served as resource persons for "The Introduction to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) Training." This training specifically focused on Article 3, "General Principles," as a fundamental step towards understanding the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The training was held at the Thailand Association of the Blind.

The purpose of this training was to enhance knowledge of the CRPD among 17 participants, who were persons with disabilities of all types. According to the International Disability Alliance (IDA), each country was assigned to conduct CRPD training for its own citizens and report back to IDA as part of the Bridge CRPD-SDGs Initiative Project.

The team of resource persons included Dr. Nantanoot Suwannawut, who explained the overall CRPD and Article 3 (A to G). Dr. Peanchanan Leah facilitated the CRPD principles from part A to C. Dr. Issavara Sirirungruang facilitated CRPD principles from part E to F. Ms. Supaanong Panyasirimongkol facilitated CRPD principles from part D, G, and H, and Mr. Chayoot Homdee assisted facilitators in each session. Personal Assistants included Mr. Rutt Kitchtham and Ms. Prim Kaewpradub.

The training incorporated not only lectures but also mini-games and workshops, which helped participants gain more interaction, understanding, and make new friends. Participants acquired knowledge of the CRPD and gained a deeper understanding of their own rights as individuals with disabilities.

Opening speech by Mr. Ekkamol Phaetthayanan, President of Thailand Association of the blind.