Ministry of Family Forges Strategic Partnerships to Advance Empowerment of People of Determination
The Ministry of Family has entered into two significant memoranda of understanding with the University of Sharjah and Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, establishing a comprehensive framework for institutional collaboration aimed at strengthening support systems and fostering independence for People of Determination.
The Ministry of Family has signed two memoranda of understanding that represent a pivotal advancement in the nation’s commitment to creating an integrated ecosystem of support for families and, most notably, for People of Determination. The agreements, executed with the University of Sharjah and Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, were formalised during the Ministry’s participation in the eighth edition of the AccessAbilities Expo 2026.
Hessa Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Empowerment of People of Determination and Senior Citizens at the Ministry of Family, signed both agreements on behalf of the Ministry. The collaboration with the University of Sharjah, represented by Dr. Salah Taher Al Haj, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs, establishes a framework through which academic rigour and scientific inquiry will inform the development of family and community policies. The University’s research capabilities will be directed towards examining family and social dynamics, analysing evolving community needs, and assessing the efficacy of programmes and initiatives. This partnership also encompasses the training and professional development of students, creating opportunities for emerging talent to engage with community challenges whilst contributing meaningfully to evidence-based policymaking.
The memorandum with Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, signed by Mona Abdul Karim Al Yafei, Director General of SCHS, focuses upon the practical progression of individuals through rehabilitation, vocational training, and employment pathways towards economic independence and fuller community participation. The agreement facilitates the enrolment of SCHS graduates in specialised rehabilitation and vocational programmes, alongside the promotion and marketing of projects and products developed by People of Determination, thereby creating tangible opportunities for economic contribution and self-sufficiency.
Ms. Tahlak emphasised that these partnerships transcend conventional institutional cooperation, instead representing a transformative shift in how empowerment is conceived and delivered. Rather than focusing solely upon service provision, the collaborative framework prioritises capacity building and expanded participation, enabling People of Determination to transition from beneficiary roles to active contributors within society. She noted that the initiatives connect rehabilitation and scientific research directly to labour market requirements, creating more substantial opportunities for meaningful engagement and demonstrating the capabilities of this community.
Dr. Al Haj expressed the University’s commitment to utilising its multidisciplinary expertise in sociology, medicine and related disciplines to advance family wellbeing. He highlighted that the partnership aligns with the national emphasis upon family as a cornerstone of societal development, particularly during the Year of Family, and commits the institution to collaborative research, student engagement and knowledge exchange that strengthens the family’s central role in community progress.
Ms. Al Yafei articulated a vision of empowerment rooted in practical outcomes, whereby individuals acquire skills and knowledge that translate into productive participation and economic independence. She underscored the significance of creating clear pathways from education and rehabilitation towards employment and self-sufficiency, ensuring that aspiration becomes tangible reality.
The memoranda collectively establish a framework for professional and technical expertise sharing, joint initiative development, and collaborative events and conferences. Through this integrated approach, government, academic and community institutions strengthen their collective capacity to deliver services that remain responsive to evolving needs whilst fostering family stability and enabling People of Determination to fulfil their potential within an increasingly inclusive society.
Source: WAM