Round Table Discussion on “Accessibility with Disability”

The Young Indians (Yi) Mangaluru Chapter, a part of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in collaboration with Manel Srinivas Nayak Institute of Management (MSNIM) and supported by CII, organised a Round Table on Accessibility with Disability on the theme “Inclusive Education and Workplaces, Attitudes and Awareness: Changing the Lens” on 23rd September at Nethravathi Hall, MSNIM.

The event served as a platform for academic leaders, industry professionals, and educationists to reflect on the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in today’s educational and professional environments.

The session began with a welcome address by Mr. Ashish Rai, Accessibility Chair of Yi Mangaluru, who emphasised the importance of inclusive practices that ensure equal opportunities for all. This was followed by an address by Mr. Sharan Shetty, Co-Chair of Yi Mangaluru. The programme also witnessed the presence of CA Salome Lobo Pereira, Chair of Yi Mangaluru, and Dr. Molly Chaudhuri, Director of MSNIM.

The round table discussion was moderated by Dr. Roopa, who led an engaging and thought-provoking dialogue among the panelists. The distinguished panel included Mr. Aditya Kalluraya, Founder & CEO of The Web People; Mr. Vinod Pinto, President of CREDAI; Dr. Molly Chaudhuri, Director of MSNIM; and Dr. Matilda Pinto, noted author and educationist.

Each panellist shared valuable insights on the barriers faced by differently-abled individuals, the challenges of implementing inclusive practices, and strategies to promote accessibility at institutional and organisational levels. The discussion also highlighted the need to broaden the understanding of inclusivity beyond physical infrastructure, focusing on attitudinal change and awareness as essential components for fostering equal participation.

Speakers collectively emphasised that accessibility is not merely a social responsibility but a key element in building empathetic, sustainable, and progressive communities.

The event concluded with a message of inspiration, encouraging all participants to take active steps toward promoting inclusivity in education and workplaces. The collaborative initiative of Yi Mangaluru, MSNIM, and the panellists marked a meaningful step in “changing the lens” toward accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.