Governor Of Maharashtra Launches India’s Road to International Abilympics Finland 2027 At World Trade Center Mumbai
Event marks India’s mission to field its largest-ever contingent at the global Work Skill Olympics for Persons with Disabilities
POSTED BY:- Poonam S. Juthani
DT:-05/07/2026
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Mumbai, July 3, 2026 — The World Trade Center Mumbai hosted the 18th Foundation Day of Sarthak Educational Trust alongside the Pre-International Assessments for the International Abilympics Finland 2027, organised by Sarthak Educational Trust in collaboration with the National Abilympic Association of India (NAAI). The event marked the official launch of India’s Road to the 11th International Abilympics – Finland 2027, signalling the country’s mission to field its largest-ever contingent at the global Work Skill Olympics for Persons with Disabilities.
Commitment to Empowerment
World Trade Center Mumbai has consistently supported the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) through inclusive employment, skill development, and capacity-building initiatives. The institution has implemented a 2 percent reservation for PwDs in its workforce and established a dedicated Skill Centre for Persons with Disabilities to support skill development, employability, and career growth. These initiatives underscore its commitment to equal opportunity and empowerment through education and capacity building.
Voices of Leadership
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Governor Shri Jishnu Dev Varma congratulated the National Abilympics champions and emphasized the importance of inclusion in India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat. He said: “Congratulations to all the National Abilympics champions. As we move towards Viksit Bharat, we must create an ecosystem that provides equal opportunities and enables every Person with Disability to realise their full potential. Technology and AI must be harnessed with justice, compassion and vision to build an inclusive future for all.”
Dr. Jitender Aggarwal, Founder & CEO, Sarthak Educational Trust and Secretary General, NAAI, outlined the vision for Finland 2027: “Our vision for Finland 2027 is to send India’s biggest-ever contingent, backed by world-class training, industry partnerships and a strong ecosystem of support. Through sustained collaboration between government, corporates, academia and civil society, we are creating pathways to global excellence, sustainable livelihoods and a more inclusive India.”
Delivering the vote of thanks, Ms. Priya Pansare, Director, Trade and Investment Promotion, World Trade Center Mumbai, said: “World Trade Center Mumbai has always been at the forefront of supporting initiatives that promote social inclusion, skill development, entrepreneurship, and employment generation. It has been our privilege to partner with Sarthak over the years, and we deeply appreciate the organisation’s outstanding efforts in empowering persons with disabilities.”
India’s Road to Finland 2027
The International Abilympics, often referred to as the Work Skill Olympics for Persons with Disabilities, is a global platform that showcases the talent, resilience, and skill of PwDs across diverse vocational categories. India’s participation in Finland 2027 is expected to be its largest-ever contingent, reflecting the country’s growing commitment to inclusion and excellence.
The Pre-International Assessments held during the event provided a platform for participants to demonstrate their skills, receive feedback, and prepare for the rigorous training ahead. These assessments are designed to identify talent, build confidence, and ensure that India’s representatives are equipped to compete at the highest international level.
Sarthak Educational Trust: A Legacy of Impact
Founded in 2008, Sarthak Educational Trust has been at the forefront of empowering PwDs through education, skill development, and employment opportunities. Over the past 18 years, the organisation has built a strong ecosystem of support, enabling thousands of individuals to achieve sustainable livelihoods and social inclusion.
Through its collaboration with NAAI, Sarthak has played a pivotal role in preparing Indian participants for the International Abilympics, ensuring that they receive world-class training and exposure. Its initiatives have been supported by partnerships with government agencies, corporates, and civil society organisations, creating a holistic framework for empowerment.
World Trade Center Mumbai’s Role
As a partner in this journey, World Trade Center Mumbai has consistently championed initiatives that promote social inclusion and skill development. Its Skill Centre for PwDs provides training in diverse vocational areas, helping individuals build careers and achieve independence. By reserving 2 percent of its workforce for PwDs, WTC Mumbai has set a benchmark for inclusive employment practices in India.
Conclusion
The 18th Foundation Day of Sarthak Educational Trust and the launch of India’s Road to the International Abilympics Finland 2027 mark a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards inclusion and empowerment. With the support of World Trade Center Mumbai, government leaders, industry partners, and civil society, India is poised to make a historic impact at the global Work Skill Olympics.
By fielding its largest-ever contingent, backed by training, innovation, and collaboration, India is not only preparing to compete on the world stage but also reaffirming its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
For Further Information: Ms. Priya Pansare Director, Trade and Investment Promotion World Trade Center Mumbai
