More programmes to integrate people of determination into the workplace are being implemented by the Social Development Ministry as part of a national strategy.
This was highlighted by a ministry official during a celebration held to mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, at Downtown Rotana yesterday.
Social Development Ministry’s Shaikhan Al Farsi Comprehensive Speech Centre president Younis Al Haddar also outlined services being made available for people of determination across the kingdom.
“The ministry provides professional and academic support for people with disabilities as well as programmes for private rehabilitation centres,” Mr Al Haddar told the GDN.
“Training programmes are also being offered from the ministry-affiliated centres,” he added.
A total of 72 initiatives have been launched as part of the Persons with Disabilities National Strategy 2023-2027 across seven categories – education, academic and professional rehabilitation, social and women’s empowerment, construction and regulation, health and rehabilitation, public awareness and ease of access to buildings and services.
One of them is a training programme rolled out this year targeting individuals with disabilities who are about to graduate by supporting them in getting integrated into the workplace.
Mr Al Haddar also highlighted the expansion of A’ali Comprehensive Disability Complex. It currently includes health clubs and centres that support people with disabilities and offer specialised programmes related to auditory and speech therapy, mental health and more.
The project, one of the biggest complexes for the disabled in the Middle East, aims to provide a comfortable educational and rehabilitation environment for 1,450 persons of determination, who are attended to by 160 staff members, at the main building.
It caters to a number of groups including those with Down syndrome, deaf, dumb, autistic and those suffering from brain damage and mental illnesses.
Yesterday’s event started with an opening speech by the Social Development Ministry Under-Secretary Sahar Rashed Almannai.
“This event reflects the pioneering experience that Bahrain has achieved in supporting people with disabilities,” she noted.
“It also demonstrates the commitment of the Higher Committee for the Care of People with Disabilities, chaired by Social Development Minister Osama Al Alawi, to engage with the international community in celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3.”
She highlighted the programmes taking place throughout the year in support of people with disabilities including Arab Deaf Week, activities for individuals with visual impairments, events related to autism and more.
The ministry works on integrating persons with disabilities in all global events in a structured manner through a plan established at the beginning of the year. It aims to ensure their participation as contributing members of society in various celebrations such as World Health Day, International Women’s Day and others.
“Providing services and support for people with disabilities is a responsibility that falls on the entire community, whether from institutions or individuals,” said Mr Al Haddar.
“They are an essential part of society and the community needs to know and recognise their rights and we hope all institutions and individuals will provide this support in every possible way.”
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