Ministry promotes disability inclusion through new training program

Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación
Maynor Estrada, Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Alimentación | Twitter

The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) has taken steps to promote an inclusive culture within public service by supporting the full integration of people with disabilities. This initiative is part of the ministry’s ongoing commitment to equity, accessibility, and respect for labor rights.

On October 27, MAGA concluded a training program focused on Labor Rights with Emphasis on Disability Issues. The program was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (MINTRAB).

According to MAGA, this initiative aims to strengthen institutional capacities and contribute to a more accessible and inclusive public service. The ministry stated that these efforts are intended to advance equity and prevent discrimination.

The training program is seen as an important step for MAGA in educating its staff about the importance of labor inclusion for people with disabilities. It aligns with national policies promoting social inclusion and seeks to build a fairer and more accessible work environment.

During the closing forum, participants discussed topics such as the inclusion of people with disabilities in the public sector, human resources perspectives on workplace inclusion processes, and presented the Guide for Labor Inclusion of People with Disabilities.

So far in 2025, 287 employees from various units and departments at MAGA have completed this training. The goal is to enhance their knowledge and attitudes toward creating more equal and respectful workplaces.

At the closing event, facilitators Edna Aguilar, Magda Aguirre, Lorena Chinchilla, and Pablo Vásquez received recognition for their contributions. Panelists Silvia Guevara and Paulo Arriola were also acknowledged for their involvement in developing the program.

Participants at the event included Glenda Tello, Director of Human Resources at MAGA; Daniel Campa, Head of Personal Development; Silvia Guevara from the School of Psychological Sciences at Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala; Paulo Arriola from Benemérito Comité Pro Ciegos y Sordos de Guatemala; and Dorotea Grijalva, General Director at MINTRAB.