How technology can restore dignity for people with disabilities while boosting the economy

Winnie Tang says the disabled population around the world represents a largely untapped workforce, market and economic engine, and technology is now helping them to contribute more

Queen Elizabeth hosts a ceremony to celebrate the 40th anniversary of British charity Motability, at Windsor Castle on April 25. Motability enables those with disabilities, their families and carers to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair using their mobility allowance. Photo: AFP
A government survey in 2013 put the number of people with disabilities in Hong Kong at around 600,000, some 10 per cent of the total population . These people are also often in low-income groups, as it is difficult for them to find jobs. In Hong Kong, over 500,000 are unemployed, or more than 80 per cent of people with disabilities.
Technology can not only help them make a living and improve their lives, but also boost the economy. Disability charity Scope UK estimates that employing 1 million disabled workers would boost Britain’s GDP by £45 billion (HK$430 billion) by 2030.
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