Promoting disability equity and rights
Our disability inclusion efforts are guided by the ‘twin-track approach’ as outlined in the Australian Government’s Development for All strategy. The Partnership seeks to mainstream disability inclusion across all its works, as well as implement initiatives to meet the specific requirements of people with disabilities to enable their inclusion in skills development opportunities.
Mainstreaming
Mainstreaming efforts seek to identify and overcome barriers to participation by people with disabilities in all aspects of the Vanuatu Skills Partnership’s work, and most specifically in ensuring inclusive access to training and business development support through the provincial Skills Centres.

Working together with the Ministry of Education and Training, the Partnership has supported the development of disability inclusive education and skills development policies. Drawing from lessons learned through the Partnership’s work, these support the establishment and strengthening of an education and training system that supports the prosperity of all of Vanuatu’s citizens – including those with disabilities.
The Partnership continues to support training providers to enable them to deliver quality, inclusive qualifications and coaching.

Disability specific activities
Disability specific activities promote equitable access by providing targeted support to improve access to the accommodations and services required specifically by people with disabilities.
These are often fundamental supports, without which inclusion might be challenging or even impossible, such as provision of transport, accessible venues, a sign language interpreter, or caregiver support.
Vanuatu’s Sign Language
The Partnership is collaborating with partners to develop Vanuatu’s sign language. Together with Deaf people across Torba province, the Partnership videoed sign language for common Torba words.
As outlined in a sign language situation analysis undertaken by the Partnership together with the Ministry of Justice and Community Services in 2018, the development of a sign language starts with mapping existing signs and relies on the input of Deaf people themselves.
The meaningful engagement of people with disability is fundamental to the development of effective, appropriate and realistic disability inclusion approaches.
The Vanuatu Skills Partnership works in close association with Vanuatu’s Organisation of Persons with Disabilities, Vanuatu Disability Promotion and Advocacy Association, as well as with Vanuatu’s main service provider, Vanuatu Society for People with Disability, and the Government of Vanuatu’s disability focal point, situated within the Ministry of Justice and Community Services.
