Latest news with #socialDevelopment


Zawya
12-06-2025
- General
- Zawya
DCD participates for the first time as part of the UAE delegation at the UN Conference of States Parties
Abu Dhabi – In line with its efforts to promote social development and strengthen Abu Dhabi's position as an inclusive city, the Department of Community Development (DCD) – Abu Dhabi participated for the first time as part of the United Arab Emirates delegation at the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP-18), held at the United Nations headquarters in New York, with the participation of representatives from over 180 countries. This participation reflects DCD's role as the regulator of the social sector and the main driver of the empowerment and inclusion of People of Determination in Abu Dhabi, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Family and the UAE's Permanent Mission to the UN. It exemplifies a unified national approach that reflects the UAE's commitment to human rights and to building a cohesive and inclusive society. During the event, the Department presented Abu Dhabi's pioneering experience in improving the quality of life for People of Determination through the Abu Strategy for People of Determination. One of its key accelerator initiatives highlighted was the 'Disability Friendly City & Community Framework' which is currently being piloted on Yas Island in partnership with Aldar Properties, and in collaboration with strategic partners including the Department of Municipalities and Transport and the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority. The initiative aims to launch an 'Inclusive City Index' that can be applied globally. Since its inception, the Department has worked through such projects to provide an inclusive and empowering environment that enables all segments of society to actively participate in public life. This aligns with its mission to build a cohesive society where everyone enjoys equal opportunities for empowerment and support, and where everyone contributes effectively to the nation and the community. In this context, H.E. Dr. Layla Al Hyas, Executive Director- family care and child sector at DCD, affirmed that the Department's participation in COSP-18 embodies Abu Dhabi's commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society, where cities are supportive environments for everyone without exception. She explained that this commitment has been translated into action through the pilot model on Yas Island, which reflects a vision for holistic urban transformation based on the needs of individuals and prioritizing quality of life in both urban and social planning. She added: 'We believe that effective social policies must be co-designed with the community and reflect its aspirations. That is why we are working on developing innovative indicators that promote evidence-based planning and contribute to more impactful programs. We also view People of Determination not merely as beneficiaries, but as true partners in shaping solutions and designing cities. Their active involvement in all stages of the framework's development reflects our belief that true empowerment begins with listening to their voices and integrating their visions into future policies and plans.'


Zawya
30-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Kuwait ministry boosts transparency and oversight in cooperative sector
KUWAIT CITY - Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila emphasized the ministry's commitment to improving work in the cooperative sector and enhancing transparency by supporting monitors and inspectors, calling them the 'trustworthy eyes of the state' in cooperative societies. Speaking at an open meeting with the Ministry's Control and Inspection Department, Dr. Al-Huwailah said the meeting aimed to strengthen the institutional work environment and address field challenges. She highlighted the cooperative sector as a unique and praised model in Kuwait and the Gulf, with significant social and economic benefits, stressing that contributing citizens are key partners in this national development. She stressed teamwork and professionalism, noting that many financial and administrative issues in some societies arise from weak oversight or supervisory lapses. Responsibility begins with individual commitment to duties. She praised the Control and Inspection Department's success in detecting violations and fighting corruption alongside the Ministry of Interior, reflecting the competence of national cadres in safeguarding public funds and promoting integrity. The Minister encouraged employees to be transparent and share field observations, acknowledging the pressures inspectors face. She reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to developing control and technical systems to provide services aligned with international standards, boosting citizen satisfaction and trust in Kuwait's cooperative sector. Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Cooperative Sector Ahmed Al-Furaij said the meeting was part of the Minister's efforts to communicate directly with inspectors to support and motivate them. The meeting produced recommendations emphasizing adherence to the new Nazaha Law, especially regarding financial disclosures and conflict of interest declarations. Al-Furaij noted the Minister values auditors' field experience and prioritizes their recommendations when drafting ministerial regulations. Key topics included auditors' observations on administrative and financial expenses, supplier payments, and social services in cooperative societies. Proposals will be submitted for regulatory amendments to enhance transparency. He outlined a comprehensive development plan that includes ongoing legal, administrative, and financial training for auditors and the introduction of advanced technologies such as electronic reports, digital correspondence, and an electronic check system. The ministry is launching a pilot phase of an integrated digital oversight project, selecting prototype associations to monitor financial and administrative activities. Al-Furaij stressed this pilot represents a major step to tighten control and improve cooperative performance, with evaluation before wider application. On report accuracy, he said auditing takes time to ensure data reliability and professionalism, with careful review guaranteeing objective and trustworthy reports. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (