Latest news with #SanaSuhail


Zawya
a day ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE and Hungary strengthen partnership to support families and drive social innovation
Dubai, UAE – The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Hungary have strengthened their bilateral relationship with a cooperation agreement signed by the UAE Ministry of Family and the Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation, with an aim to widen cooperation on family policy, cultural development, social innovation, and youth empowerment. This cooperation forms part of the two countries' shared commitment to supporting the family, prioritising it as the key pillar of the community, social cohesion, and sustainable development. UAE Minister of Family Her Excellency Sana bint Mohammed Suhail asserted that the cooperation agreement with the Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation is a pivotal step towards promoting the role of the family as a building block for cohesive and sustainable communities. 'This partnership underscores our dedication at the Ministry of Family to sharing knowledge and best practices with our international partners, in order to support policies that empower families and promote the health and wellbeing of all family members – and particularly, the youth,' H.E. the Minister added. 'Our cooperation with Hungary will facilitate our efforts to launch innovative initiatives rooted in our culture and social values. It is set to open up new prospects for collaboration in early childhood education and parent empowerment, which, in turn, lays the foundations for inclusive and sustainable development in both countries.' For his part, H.E. Balázs Hankó, Hungarian Minister of Culture and Innovation, said: 'Hungarian society takes pride in the fact that, despite all the challenges and developments in today's world, we continue to uphold the belief that the family is the cornerstone of the entire community. We also believe in the importance of the extended family and intergenerational bonds built on mutual respect and sharing. These are values that we share with the United Arab Emirates, and that will serve as the basis for our efforts to strengthen ties between our two nations.' 'At the same time, Hungary has a national vision to become an advanced digital and industrial state,' H.E. Hankó continued. 'However, we are facing demographic challenges, and with that in mind, we look forward to exchanging expertise with our counterparts in the UAE – a country that has become a regional and global model in supporting families and promoting social innovation. This is a strategic priority for us, not merely a short-term step.' A Strong Family for a Cohesive Society The collaboration agreement between the UAE Ministry of Family and the Hungarian Ministry of Culture and Innovation, aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the two partners in all areas related to family policy, social initiatives, and cultural activities. It reflects a shared vision that prioritises strengthening family bonds, ensuring balance between work and family life, and strengthening intergenerational relationships, which helps build stronger and more cohesive societies. The agreement seeks to launch initiatives targeting the youth and designed to support family values among them, foster intergenerational dialogue, and explore innovative solutions to contemporary family issues. Cooperation also includes organising joint research projects bringing together specialised institutions from both countries to focus particularly on topics such as family statistics and shifting social roles. Moreover, the agreement aims to empower parents by developing support systems, flexible policies, and family-friendly work environments. In addition to developing a clear roadmap toward increasing parental awareness through comprehensive and sustainable programmes. Advancing Knowledge Exchange The partnership's execution framework includes hosting joint seminars, conferences, and policy discussions, as well as delegations and expert visits. It also involves the creation of collaborative research projects, awareness campaigns, study tours, and training programmes designed to develop the skills of professionals working in related social and cultural fields. The three-year renewable collaboration is a testament to both parties' sincere desire to build a long-term relationship that benefits families and the community. The agreement presents a practical framework that embodies a shared commitment to building bridges for constructive collaboration and knowledge sharing, which, in turn, serves the interests of both countries. Furthermore, the agreement reflects the shared vision between the UAE and Hungary to build prosperous societies that place families at their core, prioritising innovation and cultural integration as an engine towards a more inclusive and stable future.


Khaleej Times
26-06-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE to establish federal fertility centre as citizens' birth rates decline
The UAE is moving forward with a plan to establish a federal fertility centre offering advanced services to support Emiratis struggling with infertility, as part of a broader strategy to reverse declining national birth rates. The proposal was discussed on Wednesday during the Federal National Council (FNC) session in Abu Dhabi, with Minister of Family Sana Suhail confirming that feasibility studies are underway. The centre, she explained, is being developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Prevention and Emirates Health Services. The plan has entered the stage of identifying a suitable location and the scope of services, with the aim of integrating early reproductive counselling and fertility services into primary healthcare nationwide. 'The issue of fertility and reproductive health is a national priority,' Suhail said, adding that a unified national strategy to enhance birth rates is expected to be approved and announced before the end of 2025. The strategy is being drafted in collaboration with 17 federal and local entities, with a clear governance framework and oversight from the country's leadership. Official statistics presented at the session revealed a worrying 11 per cent drop in births among Emiratis between 2015 and 2022, while non-citizen births increased by 5 per cent over the same period. In 2022, just 30,889 Emiratis were born compared to 65,762 expatriates. 'If we do not act quickly, Emiratis could make up less than 10 per cent of the population in 25 years,' warned FNC member Sultan Al Zaabi. 'This threatens economic growth, social stability, and the preservation of our national identity.' The council adopted 15 recommendations, including revisiting maternity leave and breastfeeding entitlements, introducing childcare leave, and reviewing remote work policies to prioritise working mothers. It also urged the government to ensure nationwide insurance coverage for fertility treatments and accelerate the establishment of a federal fertility centre, particularly to serve citizens in the Northern Emirates where access remains limited and treatment costs high. The minister confirmed that integrating services into primary healthcare centres and training medical staff were key parts of the implementation plan. Members also raised concerns about the rising average age of marriage and a growing reluctance among young people to marry. Dr Moza Al Shehhi noted that some young Emiratis now marry after 30, a trend that directly affects fertility and marriage rates. Suhail acknowledged the behavioural and psychological aspects of the issue. 'We are rethinking how we support young people at every stage — before and after marriage. The focus is not only on financial support, but on addressing emotional and societal challenges as well.' Lifestyle factors linked to infertility were also raised. FNC member Amna Al Adidi pointed to unhealthy habits, smoking, and the use of performance-enhancing substances among young men as potential causes. Suhail responded that reproductive health is a dedicated track within the national strategy and that data collection and policy-making will be grounded in medical evidence. Economic pressure was another key theme. Several members cited rising living costs, inadequate housing, and insufficient family allowances as significant deterrents to larger families. Member Mohammed Hassan Al Dhahouri urged policymakers to 'treat family incentives not as social aid, but as a national investment.' Suhail confirmed the strategy would include economic proposals aligned with family size and long-term social stability. 'We are not approaching this from a traditional welfare perspective. This is about building a supportive environment for sustainable population growth,' she said. The council also called for a reassessment of housing plot sizes and policies, noting that smaller family homes may discourage couples from having more children. Suhail said the ministry is working with the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure to explore housing solutions that support extended families. Local community councils will play a role in shaping mindsets, the minister added, with awareness campaigns planned across social media and national platforms to promote a culture of 'positive and responsible parenthood.' 'The goal is to embed family values and the importance of parenthood from early life stages, and to empower citizens to make confident choices,' Suhail said. FNC members urged the ministry to ensure the upcoming strategy results in actionable decisions, not just ideas. 'This should not be another cycle of studies and recommendations,' said member Najla Al Shamsi. 'The numbers are clear, the challenge is real — now we need action.'


Time of India
21-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
UAE: 50 people of determination graduate, now ready for workforce integration
Fifty graduates completed personalised education and vocational training, including entrepreneurship at Mashaghel centres/ Ministry Of Family UAE In a quiet yet deeply powerful ceremony in Ajman, fifty young Emiratis with disabilities crossed the graduation stage, not only completing an educational milestone but embodying a broader national vision: that ability, not disability, defines contribution. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Family at the Ajman Cultural Centre, brought together graduates from across the Emirates, Dubai, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Dibba Fujairah. These young men and women had spent years in rehabilitation and care centres, navigating both academic and personal challenges, before arriving at this celebratory moment. Their success was not accidental. It reflects a nationwide infrastructure of support aimed at empowering people of determination through specialised education, training, and now, increasingly, pathways to independence. Sana Suhail, UAE Minister of Family, personally honoured each of the graduates during the event. Her presence underscored the Ministry's deep commitment to empowering people of determination. Speaking at the ceremony, she highlighted the emotional and symbolic significance of the occasion: 'The event was more than a ceremony. It was a sign of what's possible when people of determination are given support and encouragement. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Laxmi Ji Idol For Wealth, Peace & Happiness Luxeartisanship Shop Now Undo It showed the importance of believing in their abilities and creating spaces where they can learn, grow, and contribute,' said Suhail. She praised the graduates for their 'determination and commitment,' stating that the achievement stands as a testament to their unwavering will and the value of the inclusive programmes offered through the ministry. According to Suhail, their journey shows that disabilities do not stop dreams, and that their success serves as a beacon for others navigating similar paths. The graduates represent the outcome of years-long efforts carried out at disability care and rehabilitation centres operated by the Ministry of Family in Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dibba Al-Fujairah. These centres provide individualised education and training for students aged 4 to 18, tailored to each student's abilities and ambitions. Once students complete these programmes, they are given multiple options: Transition into vocational training Launch home-based small business projects Or prepare for integration into the job market This year's graduating cohort also marked the first inclusion of students from the 'Mashaghel Rehabilitation Centres Programme', a vocational stream focused on entrepreneurship and small project development. This programme equips people of determination with practical business and home-enterprise skills, aiming to give them both confidence and economic self-reliance. It is a critical shift in approach: away from viewing rehabilitation as a service, and toward building long-term self-sufficiency and purpose-driven lives. The ceremony did more than honour a group of students. It served as a real-world demonstration of the UAE's National Policy for Empowering Persons with Disabilities, which emphasises equal access to education, healthcare, employment, and community participation. The Ministry of Family's role in realising these goals is strategic. By managing and expanding access to training centres across the country, the ministry is ensuring that people of determination are not merely included in society, but are active participants in its development.


Khaleej Times
21-06-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
'More than ceremony': UAE minister honours 50 people of determination upon graduating
Fifty young men and women with disabilities walked proudly across the stage in Ajman, celebrating a moment many thought might never come - they were graduating. The Ministry of Family held a special ceremony at the Cultural Centre in Ajman to honour 50 students, all of whom completed training at disability care and rehabilitation centres across the UAE. The graduates came from Dubai, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Dibba Fujairah. For the first time, they were joined by students from the 'Mashaghel Rehabilitation Centres' vocational training programme, creating a shared celebration of hard work and progress. Sana Suhail, Minister of Family, honoured each graduate personally. These students had taken a path that required strength, not just physically, but emotionally. Through their academic and professional training, they showed that disabilities do not stop dreams. Their journey has become an example for many others. She praised the graduates for their determination and commitment. She emphasised that this achievement stands as a testament to their unwavering will and the profound positive impact of these programmes, which aim to build a more inclusive and equitable society. 'The event was more than a ceremony. It was a sign of what's possible when people of determination are given support and encouragement. It showed the importance of believing in their abilities and creating spaces where they can learn, grow, and contribute,' she said. The ceremony was a celebration and reinforcement of inclusion and empowerment. It highlighted the importance of investing in the capabilities of people of determination and providing a supportive environment for them to contribute effectively to the nation's development. It also showcases the Ministry of Family's important work in promoting social inclusion and ensuring equal access to education, healthcare, and jobs for people of determination, in line with the National Policy for Empowering Persons with Disabilities. The Ministry of Family operates several rehabilitation centres for people of determination across different emirates, including Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dibba Al-Fujairah. These centres work with individuals aged 4 to 18, offering customised education and training. Once students complete the programme, they can move into vocational work, take on small projects, or prepare to enter the job market. One programme, called the 'Mashaghel Rehabilitation Centres Programme,' gives people of determination training in entrepreneurship and home-based business skills. It helps them work towards independence and learn how to run their own small projects or businesses from home.


Zawya
20-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ministry of Family celebrates graduation of 50 students
Dubai – Her Excellency Sana Suhail, Minister of Family, honoured 50 graduates from disability care and rehabilitation centres for people of determination during an inspiring graduation ceremony held yesterday at the Cultural Centre in Ajman. For the first time, this event brought together students from the centres for people of determination across Dubai, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Dibba Fujairah, along with students from the "Mashaghel Rehabilitation Centers " vocational training programme, celebrating their perseverance and remarkable achievements. Through their academic and professional journeys, these individuals have become inspiring examples of willpower and dedication. In her speech during the ceremony, Her Excellency praised the graduates for their determination and commitment. She emphasised that this achievement stands as a testament to their unwavering will and the profound positive impact of these programmes, which aim to build a more inclusive and equitable society. The ceremony was a celebration and reinforcement of inclusion and empowerment. It highlighted the importance of investing in the capabilities of people of determination and providing a supportive environment for them to contribute effectively to the nation's development. It also showcases the Ministry of Family's important work in promoting social inclusion and ensuring equal access to education, healthcare, and jobs for people of determination, in line with the National Policy for Empowering Persons with Disabilities. The UAE federal government runs rehabilitation centers for people of determination through the Ministry of Family. These centers are located in various emirates, including Dubai, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Dibba Al-Fujairah. They provide tailored education, training, and rehabilitation programmes for individuals aged 4 to 18. After completing these programmes, young people can transition into vocational roles, develop life skills, take on project-based work, or join the wider job market. One such initiative, the "Mashaghel Rehabilitation Centers Programme" workshops, equips people of determination with entrepreneurship and home-based business skills, further expanding opportunities for independence and personal growth. About the Ministry of Family On 8th December 2024, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the establishment of the Ministry of Family in the United Arab Emirates. This initiative, guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, positions the Ministry as the principal authority for developing and implementing policies, strategies, and legislation aimed at fostering stable and cohesive families across the UAE. Its core remit includes bolstering the family's role in nurturing sound upbringing, reinforcing national identity, and promoting positive values and behaviours within society. Furthermore, the Ministry will play a crucial part in undertaking research and proposing vital policies and initiatives to boost family fertility rates and mitigate the risks and adverse societal impacts of family breakdown, working closely with all pertinent specialist agencies.