Jawaher Al Qasimi Highlights Sharjah’s Disability Care
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, recently reaffirmed the Emirate's dedication to creating supportive environments for people with disabilities. She emphasized that Sharjah’s leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, has invested heavily in resources and educational programs to ensure people with disabilities receive exceptional care, empowering them to integrate seamlessly into society.
Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS): A Leading Model in Disability Support
Sheikha Jawaher’s recent visit to the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in Al Barashi highlighted the Emirate’s over 40-year commitment to disability support. During her tour, she was welcomed by Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, and Muna Abdul Karim Al Yafei, Director-General of SCHS. They showcased the wide array of educational and therapeutic programs SCHS offers, all aligned with the latest international standards in therapeutic education.
Reflecting on her visit, Sheikha Jawaher remarked, "My visit to SCHS revealed a story of dedicated service, fostering the growth of individuals with disabilities within a supportive community."
Innovative Programs and Facilities at SCHS
Sheikha Jawaher explored various facilities at SCHS, including the Masarat Development and Empowerment Centre, which promotes the skills of individuals with disabilities. Brands like Taqueen, Danat, and Zolia, produced by Masarat, reflect the creativity and capabilities of SCHS students.
SCHS also includes Al Wafaa School for Capacity Development, the first school in the UAE established to support individuals with cognitive disabilities and autism. Founded in 1984, the school has continuously expanded its services to ensure that students with diverse needs receive appropriate, high-quality care.
Another key facility is the Sharjah Autism Centre, which began as part of Al Wafaa and now serves as the UAE’s first specialised centre for autism support. This centre offers vital educational and therapeutic resources, catering to individuals with autism and their families.
Continuous Support from Sharjah’s Leadership
During her visit, Sheikha Jameela Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, emphasized the significant impact of support from Sharjah’s leadership. She noted, "Her Highness’s visit underscores our dedication to a society that fully supports individuals with disabilities." This backing, both financially and morally, has enabled SCHS to grow its services and provide meaningful support to thousands of families.
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Expanding SCHS’s Reach and International Recognition
SCHS Director-General Muna Abdul Karim Al Yafei shared that SCHS has earned prestigious accreditations, including a six-year recognition from CARF International, marking it as the first UAE organization to receive this level of accreditation for disability services. SCHS has also partnered with organizations like Spain’s 'Plena Inclusión' to further enhance the independence of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
SCHS’s Al Amal School for the Deaf has been recognized as a Microsoft Showcase School for eight consecutive years, emphasizing its commitment to modern, technology-driven education.
Looking Forward: SCHS Hosts World Conference on Inclusive Education in 2025
As SCHS continues to expand its influence locally and internationally, it will host the World Conference on Inclusive Education in partnership with Inclusion International in September 2025. This event, supported by the Government of Sharjah, is a testament to the Emirate's dedication to inclusive education.
A Bright Future for Disability Support in Sharjah
With continuous leadership from H.H. Sheikha Jawaher and H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Sharjah remains a beacon of support and innovation for people with disabilities. Their efforts reinforce the Emirate's role as a model for inclusive, compassionate care, ensuring every individual can thrive in a nurturing and empowering environment.