Diversity and Inclusion – Education to Employment

Introduction

In the dynamic landscape of Odisha, various marginalized communities – including those identified by Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) categories such as women, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and transgender individuals – are experiencing transformative journeys in education and employment. Numerous studies support the positive impact of DEI initiatives. For instance, McKinsey & Company found a 33% higher return on equity in companies with diverse executive teams. Fortune 500 companies with more women on boards exhibited 50% higher earnings per share. The economic growth and GDP per capita of countries with greater gender equality were found to be higher. This summary delves into the progress, challenges, and future outlook for each community, highlighting their relevance to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 5, 8, and 10.

In Odisha despite increase in women’s literacy, challenges persist in achieving higher educational attainment. Despite progress, challenges such as workplace discrimination, lack of access to quality education in rural areas, and limited economic opportunities in certain regions persist. In case of persons with disabilities, the Gender Inequality Index has decreased, but higher educational attainment remains a challenge. Further, PWDs face challenges in accessing employment opportunities despite advancements in education and skilling. Transgender education percentages in Odisha are lower than the national average, with only 11% completing secondary education. It is believed that by addressing educational and employment disparities, embracing DEI principles, and aligning with SDGs, Odisha can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Specific learning for the participants

  • Understand how Diversity and Inclusion will help the Society through engagement of Civil Society Organisations.
  • Learn how the diverse communities are working to embrace Inclusion
  • How NGOs and other CSOs will gain by having DIE policy in their own organisations

Who should participate

  • Persons with Disabilities
  • Transgender
  • CSO representatives
  • Students

 Facilitating Organisation

DiverseUs: https://www.diverseus.in/

Diverseus is a start-up which works passionately at translating the aspirational vision of the organizations to have a skilled, diversified, equitable and inclusive (DEI) workspace. Partnering with CSR agencies for wider reach, it aims at working as a platform between corporations working towards diversity development as a CSR activity.

Archana Mishra: DEI Partner/Advisor Campus Placement/ Executive Search Consultant/ Trainer/ Career Coach/ Ex-Deputy Director-Industry Engagement, KIIT University.

Archana Mishra is a seasoned professional with more than 20+ years of experience in Career services, Training, Head Hunting, International Relations, Career Coaching, Event Management and Planning.Archana is currently the founder of Diverseus Resources and Trustee at Diversity Society Trust. She is passionate and committed to create awareness about DEI in workplace and provide equal opportunity to candidates from diverse backgrounds. Prior to this she was working as the Deputy Director for Industry Engagement at KIIT University and is an Executive Search consultant and Certified Life Coach.Archana is also the founder Director of her firm Azlan Consultancy, which provides advisory services to universities for Industry Engagement and corporate relations, manpower services CXO level in corporate. Has actively been a part of International Exchange coordination in the USA. She has also worked in the Human Resource department at Vodafone India Ltd. As the L&D and Employee Engagement Lead for Odisha.