33 with disabilities in SUSS pilot project on inclusive hiring

More than 30 people with disabilities such as hearing loss and autism have been hired by the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) on a part-time basis, in a six-month pilot.

- Shermaine Ang

Three people with lower needs were hired in areas such as graphic design, digital marketing and programme administrative support. The other 30, who have higher needs, were engaged to pack orientation goodie bags, craft thank-you cards and coasters, and prepare rooms for events.

The pilot from July to December hopes to find out the challenges and benefits of hiring people with disabilities, and will culminate in a research study by around June 2025.

The inclusive hiring project by SUSS' human resources and sustainability offices was launched as part of the university's plans to implement sustainability practices, including fostering an inclusive campus.

SUSS is also launching an applied research group called the Node for Inclusive Lifelong Education (Nile) in January 2025. It will have eight faculty staff across disciplines to study and promote lifelong learning and inclusive hiring of people with disabilities, seniors and former offenders.

Associate Professor Lim Lee Ching, dean of the S R Nathan School of Human Development, who is leading the research group, said SUSS is in talks with social service agencies on the gaps in services for these groups of people.

The team is looking at coming up with research on inclusive education and providing training for these groups and their caregivers, as well as consultancy services to help organisations hire inclusively.