Global Body Praises UAE's ZHO For Empowering People With Determination

A delegation from Rehabilitation International (RI), a leading global organization dedicated to empowering persons with determination, recently lauded the United Arab Emirates for its exemplary care and rehabilitation services. These commendations were specifically directed towards the efforts of the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) following a visit to its headquarters. The visit, led by RI Secretary-General Teuta Rexhepi, aimed to explore ZHO's comprehensive approach in providing educational, rehabilitation, psychological, and social care services to people with determination.

During their visit, the RI delegation was welcomed by Abdullah Al Hamidan, Secretary-General of the ZHO, along with several key leaders from the organization. The delegation's members expressed their admiration for the ZHO's integrated services, highlighting the organization's commitment to fostering an inclusive society for people with determination. This visit also served as an opportunity for the delegation to learn about ZHO's strategic projects, plans, and programmes aimed at supporting individuals with determination.

One of the focal points of discussion was the upcoming World Congress on Rehabilitation (WCR 2024), set to be hosted in Abu Dhabi from 23rd to 25th September 2024. This event marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time the congress is held in the Middle East. Organized jointly by Rehabilitation International and the International Social Security Association (ISSA), and hosted by ZHO at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), WCR 2024 aims to tackle challenges faced by people with disabilities in the job market while promoting career opportunities available globally for this demographic.

Al Hamidan underscored the UAE's readiness and capability to host such a prestigious event, attributing this to the country's integrated infrastructure and essential pillars supported by its leadership. The visit also included tours of various vocational rehabilitation workshops at ZHO, including a pioneering sewing workshop and the Beehive Bakery, both providing employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual challenges. Additionally, the delegation visited "Bee Café", a unique coffee shop run by people of determination, and the Smart Robotic Rehabilitation Laboratory, showcasing ZHO's innovative approach towards rehabilitation and therapy.

The delegation's tour concluded with a visit to one of the most advanced therapeutic facilities in the UAE - a therapeutic pool offering aquatic therapy services for individuals with disabilities affiliated with ZHO. This visit not only highlighted ZHO's comprehensive care and rehabilitation efforts but also reinforced the UAE's commitment to creating an inclusive society for people with determination.

With inputs from WAM