A strategy to ensure people with disabilities can equally participate in social and economic life will be introduced in Abu Dhabi “very soon”.
The Department of Community Development made the announcement to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day, which falls on April 2.
The strategy is expected to cover four key areas; health and social welfare, education, employment and inclusive and equipped communities.
The theme for this year’s awareness day is ‘The transition to adulthood’.
Dr Bushra Al Mulla, executive director of the Community Development Sector at the department, said programmes must be put in place to meet the needs of autistic people during “this vital transition phase” in their lives.
Certain issues need to be prioritised, she said, including inclusive learning at high schools and in higher education, as well as programmes that involve accredited vocational qualification, inclusive and supportive employment, independent living skills, engagement in youth programmes such as volunteer, cultural, entertainment, sports and engagement in decision making and self-determination.
The UAE has laws and policies in place to protect the rights of people with special needs and disabilities.
UAE Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 prevents discrimination against people with disabilities.
Article 16 of the law states that a person’s disability shall not be a barrier to their consideration and selection for a job.
In 2018, Dubai issued a resolution that ensured equal rights for people with disabilities, especially in the labour market.
In the education sector, a policy was launched by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority to ensure all schools are 100 per cent inclusive.
This means Dubai schools are not allowed to refuse admission to people with disabilities.
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