AN EXPLORATORY STUDY ON HUMAN RESOURCE POLICIES AND PRACTICES ADOPTED FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES BY PRIVATE SECTOR ORGANISATIONS IN SRI LANKA

Abstract

The research explored the human resource (HR) policies and practices adopted for persons with disabilities (PWD) by private organisations in Sri Lanka. This study focused on: (1) recruitment and selection, (2) training, (3) performance appraisal, and (4) practices of accommodation. Many international and local policy makers have identified the potential of private sector in Sri Lanka to improve employment opportunities for PWD. Data were collected using a survey strategy. HR and line managers were interviewed from nine companies. Questionnaires from 51 employees who belong to visual, hearing, speech and physical disability groups were collected. The key findings were, private companies mainly employ PWD as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy and have adopted HR policies and practices. However, the HR policies and practices do not give many opportunities for career progression and majority of the PWD are found in unskilled and routine jobs irrespective of their education and unique skills. The findings indicate that PWD can be a valuable resource to an organisation if they are strategically aligned with the help of human resource management (HRM). Hence, the need for “disability-friendly” HR policies and practices are paramount that will create a win-win situation for PWD, organisations and the economy. Keywords: Persons with disabilities, Private sector organisations, Recruitment, Selection, Training, Performance, Accommodation practices.