Today's Edition
Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)
The inaugural edition of the Social Care Forum 2024 commenced on Wednesday under the theme “Enhancing Innovation and Cooperation in Social Care”. Organised by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD) in partnership with Deloitte Middle East, the two-day event brings together leaders, experts, and decision-makers from around the globe.
In her address, Shamma bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development, noted that this forum aims to drive meaningful conversations, engaging different voices and perspectives towards a “future-ready” social sector.
She noted that partnerships and collaborative efforts on both local and international levels lie at the core of social care services. “The most impactful work doesn't happen in isolation. It happens when we come together, when we share our strengths and lift each other up.”
Al Mazrui also highlighted the significance of the forum as a vital platform for exchanging expertise and promoting innovation, which is crucial for achieving comprehensive and sustainable development in the social sector.
“We believe that the future we are building today is a product of our commitment to continuous development and improvement, and creating an environment that fosters innovation, placing human development at the heart of every initiative.”
Dr. Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD), commended the successful outcomes of the forum’s first day, marked by engaging discussions with diverse insights from international experts.
He underscored the importance of the forum in shaping the future of social care and fostering global cooperation to drive innovation in the sector.
“We aspire for Abu Dhabi to be a model of excellence in social care provision, with a focus on innovation and global partnerships to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leading position and improve the quality of life for all residents,” he said.
Speaking with Aletihad on the sidelines of the forum, Dr. Al Khaili emphasised the forum’s role in bringing about innovative solutions that can be implemented in a way that is compatible with local values and traditions to enhance the DCD’s ability to serve and care for all members of Abu Dhabi’s community, including families, youth, seniors and people of determination.
He also highlighted the important role of technology, which can be leveraged in the social care sector to enhance the quality of provided services and reduce the waiting time for beneficiaries.
However, the human element remains a very integral aspect of care services, Dr. Al Khaili noted. “Care providers are among our most important focus areas today.”
Hessa Buhumaid, the Director General of Dubai’s Community Development Authority (CDA), stressed the need for inclusive discussions among all stakeholders to explore strategies for professional development in social care and to tackle future challenges in the field.
“The forum is held in a timely manner to engage all bodies, entities, stakeholders, and experts in a thorough discussion about how to best prepare social workers for future opportunities and challenges in terms of their skills, competencies, wellbeing, and emotional agility,” she said.
The forum featured a keynote address from Sir Geoffrey John Mulgan CBE, Professor at University College London, who discussed global trends in social service design and delivery. Day one also included a panel discussion on “Global Human Service Trends and Directions,” examining emerging needs and innovative practices in the sector.
Several memoranda of understanding were signed between participating entities to bolster cooperation in the field of social care. The day concluded with sub-sessions on topics such as innovations in social services, professional development, and the role of expressive arts in enhancing children's growth.
Over 40 speakers participated, with 10 workshops and interactive sessions designed to empower social care professionals. Additionally, the forum featured an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations in social care, with participation from more than 10 government, private and third-sector entities.
