Assistive Technology and Accessibility Manager – Apply by 20 June 2025
2025
Location: Maseru, Lesotho
Department: Assistive Technology and Accessibility
Employer: Persons with Disability Advisory Council (PWDAC)
Contract Duration: 5 Years (Renewable based on performance)
Closing Date: Thursday, 20 June 2025
Overview:
The Persons with Disability Advisory Council (PWDAC), a statutory body committed to promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, is seeking to appoint a qualified and visionary Assistive Technology and Accessibility Manager. This leadership role will be central in driving national strategies to improve access to assistive technologies, enhance digital and physical accessibility, and support the removal of systemic barriers across all sectors.
Purpose of the Role:
The incumbent will provide strategic guidance and technical leadership in the areas of assistive technology and accessibility. The role involves policy development, stakeholder coordination, capacity building, research promotion, and monitoring of initiatives aimed at achieving a fully inclusive environment for persons with disabilities in Lesotho.
Key Responsibilities:
Policy and Strategic Leadership:
-Lead the development and review of national policies, frameworks, and standards on assistive technology and accessibility.
-Provide expert technical advice to government agencies and stakeholders on inclusive design and procurement.
-Support integration of accessibility considerations into national development strategies.
Coordination and Partnerships:
-Collaborate with ministries, DPOs, private sector, and international partners to promote inclusive access.
-Facilitate innovation platforms and partnerships for local solutions in accessibility and assistive devices.
-Engage service providers and suppliers to improve the affordability and availability of assistive technologies.
Capacity Building and Awareness:
-Conduct training for public and private stakeholders on accessibility standards and assistive technologies.
-Develop user guides and awareness materials on inclusive communication and infrastructure.
-Promote universal design across education, transport, health, and other sectors.
Monitoring and Evaluation:
-Establish monitoring frameworks and tools to track implementation of accessibility initiatives.
-Produce periodic reports on progress and submit to the Council and relevant oversight bodies.
Research and Innovation:
-Promote and facilitate research in assistive technology and accessible environments.
-Maintain a database of available devices, services, and suppliers.
-Monitor global trends and recommend suitable applications for Lesotho.
Minimum Requirements:
-Bachelor’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences, Assistive Technology, Accessibility Studies, ICT for Development, Disability Studies, Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree will be an advantage.
-At least 5 years of relevant experience in disability inclusion, accessibility, or assistive technology.
-Familiarity with disability rights instruments such as the UNCRPD and the Persons with Disability Equity Act.
-Strong understanding of universal design and international accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG, ISO).
-Experience working with DPOs, government bodies, or international development agencies.
Key Competencies:
-Commitment to the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities
-Technical knowledge of assistive technologies and inclusive infrastructure
-Strong project management and stakeholder coordination skills
-Strategic thinking, problem-solving, and innovation
-Cultural sensitivity and professional integrity
Reporting and Accountability:
The successful candidate will report directly to the Director General of the Persons with Disability Advisory Council and collaborate with government departments, DPOs, and technical working groups.
APPLICATION PROCESS
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