In an age where communication is at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that it’s inclusive and accessible to all is paramount. Recognizing this, Pakistan’s largest telecommunication operator, PTCL Group (comprising PTCL and Ufone 4G), embarked on a remarkable journey to bridge the communication gap for individuals with hearing impairments. Their collaborative effort with ConnectHear, a socially conscious enterprise dedicated to empowering those with hearing disabilities, is not just a step forward but a giant leap toward a more inclusive society.
On the International Day of Sign Languages, PTCL Group, in a pioneering initiative within Pakistan’s telecom industry, organized a comprehensive sign language training session. The primary goal? To empower their Customer Service Center (Joint Shops) representatives from the North region with the knowledge and skills needed to communicate effectively with customers who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
Led by ConnectHear’s CEO and Co-founder, Ms. Azima Dhanjee, the training session was a remarkable blend of engagement and interaction. It incorporated a wide array of activities and real-life case studies, all designed with a singular purpose—to sensitize the PTCL Group’s customer service staff to the unique needs of Deaf customers. The result was not just a workforce better equipped to serve, but a profound understanding of the diverse needs of their customers.
For PTCL Group, this initiative is much more than a one-time event. It is a testament to their unwavering commitment to inclusivity. Inclusivity has always been a cornerstone of the Group’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies. By providing sign language training to its customer service representatives, PTCL Group reaffirms its dedication to creating a more accessible environment for all its customers.
During the training session, Amir Pasha, Group Director of Public Relations, Media, CSR & Corporate Communications at PTCL & Ufone 4G, emphasized the significance of inclusivity as a major driver of socioeconomic change. He highlighted that every customer, regardless of their abilities, should have equal access to their services. He expressed optimism that the Deaf sensitization training for their customer-facing teams would significantly enhance the customer experience.
Azima Dhanjee, CEO and Co-founder of ConnectHear, praised PTCL Group’s role in pioneering Deaf sensitization within Pakistan’s telecom industry. She believes that this partnership and the initiative it represents set a commendable example for other organizations. This collaboration extends beyond mere training—it signifies a commitment to fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and compassionate society in Pakistan.
PTCL Group’s initiative serves as a beacon of inspiration for public and private organizations alike. It demonstrates that creating a more inclusive and accessible world is not just a responsibility but an opportunity to make a profound difference. By breaking down communication barriers and empowering their employees with the skills to engage with all customers effectively, PTCL Group is setting the standard for a brighter, more inclusive future.
