SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Experts at the World Congress on Rehabilitation 2024 hailed the event as a key step in advancing employment, accessibility, and rehabilitation for People of Determination.
Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the congress, Dr. Christoph Gutenbrunner, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Hannover Medical School, described the conference as "a milestone" in the push for better employment opportunities for People of Determination.
"Employment is of utmost importance for everyone who is out of the labour market. Integrating People of Determination into the workforce is a challenge, as we first need to help companies understand the value and skills they can bring to their organisations and society as a whole," he explained.
Dr. Gutenbrunner also pointed to the need for practical solutions, highlighting the challenge of translating good ideas into action.
"While we may have good ideas, it is essential to find effective strategies for implementation," he explained, adding that the conference provides an opportunity for experts to engage in open discussions and work together on these challenges.
He announced plans for a declaration to be issued, aiming to advance these efforts.
Advanced Technology in Rehabilitation Technology and its role in rehabilitation were central themes at the congress, with discussions on how AI and robotics are being integrated into treatment plans.
Hiroshi Kawamura, Global Chair of the International Commission on Technology & Accessibility at Rehabilitation International, told Aletihad that AI could be useful in assisting People of Determination during disasters, offering tools to enhance their independence.
He also stressed the importance of setting global technological standards to ensure equitable access.
He cited DAISY technology, which allows visually impaired individuals to navigate digital content, as an example of how such innovations can benefit a wide range of disabilities.
Kawamura's future initiatives include the implementation of the Marrakesh VIP Treaty through the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), which would allow for easier global sharing of specially adapted books for people with blindness or visual impairments.
Dr. Gutenbrunner also mentioned the importance of developing evidence-based rehabilitation practices through smart assistive technologies, but stressed that therapists remain an integral part of any treatment.
"While technology can optimise treatment, the role of therapists remains essential," he said.
Addressing Global Disparities and Increasing Participation Both experts acknowledged that global accessibility to these technologies remains a challenge, particularly in low-income regions.
Dr. Gutenbrunner said, "Healthcare systems differ widely, particularly between high- and low-income countries. We must focus on community-based rehabilitation in lower-income regions while sharing technological advancements."
He explained that collaboration in these instances is of utmost importance, calling on countries to share progress.
"We need to share our progress and consider the current situation in each country, as well as identify areas for improvement through collaboration and partnership," Dr. Gutenbrunner said.
Kawamura also touched on the impact of conflict on rehabilitation efforts, noting the rising number of physical and mental disabilities in regions affected by armed conflict.
He praised the joint efforts between the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the World Health Organisation, noting the importance of step-by-step approaches to improve rehabilitation in affected regions.
"These kinds of activities are very important, and we should start with what we can do step-by-step," he emphasised.
He underlined that the participation of People of Determination in decision-making is important, as their voices should be respected, and their rights upheld.
Dr. Gutenbrunner echoed the sentiment, adding that youth should be involved in advocacy efforts as well.
He called on young people in Abu Dhabi to engage in these discussions to raise awareness about the collective responsibility to foster inclusivity.