ABU DHABI // Public, private and Government entities must work together to boost employment and integration for people with special needs, a conference heard.
Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, the Minister of Culture, Youth and Community Development, said integrating those with mental and physical disabilities was a priority for the country’s leaders.
Sheikh Nahyan made the remarks as he officially opened the inaugural ABILITIESme conference, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa region.
“This conference embodies the great cause of the UAE in supporting persons with special needs, protecting their rights and giving opportunities to the effective persons that have equal opportunities in all events and activities in the UAE,” he said.
Sheikh Nahyan said it was important that every man and woman in the UAE was able to live without discrimination and all those with special needs were given equal opportunities.
He said those with special needs "are the source of inspiration, care and pride for their families and society" and said all should have '"the right to education, work and a happy life without discrimination".
Lubna Al Ameri, an environmental protection officer at Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, said it was part of the company’s vision to employ those with special needs and the company encouraged others to follow suit.
“There is a need to break this stigma,” she said. “Everyone has the ability to contribute and we need to support everyone – whatever their needs are – in order for them to achieve their competencies and to enjoy life.”
Maha Barakat, director general of Health Authority–Abu Dhabi (Haad), also highlighted the need for greater integration of those with special needs.
"We continue to marvel at what they can achieve," she said, referring to the numerous gold, silver and bronze medals won by the UAE at the 2011 Special Olympics.
“What we have here is proof that these individuals are able to do something extremely special and forget their disabilities and special needs and become normal contributors to society. They are normal individuals and we should never forget that,” said Ms Barakat.
“We all have to work together as Government entities, the private sector and public communities to create a difference in the lives of our loved ones.
“People with special needs are a part of our community.”
She said Haad provides many services for those with disabilities.
“If we enable the disabled, we allow them to translate their disability into ability,” she said.
Education, health, accessibility, social inclusion, employment and policy development are among the topics that are being highlighted during the ABILITIESme conference, held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre.
jbell@thenational.ae
