Family Care Authority And NYUAD Initiate Unique Case Management Development Program

The Family Care Authority (FCA) has entered into a significant partnership with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) to launch the "Case Management Professional Development Program." This initiative, led by NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, aims to enhance the skills and expertise of FCA’s case managers, positioning them among the top social sector workers globally.

NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, one of the highest-ranked social sector educational institutes worldwide, marks its first social sector partnership in the UAE through this collaboration. The program underscores FCA's commitment to investing in world-class education to improve the social sector in Abu Dhabi.

The curriculum is meticulously designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of case management practice. It aims to strengthen their theoretical perspectives and ground their approach in cultural context. The learning journey begins with foundational knowledge, followed by exposure to all aspects of practice, and culminates in specialised training focusing on people of determinations, elderlies, children, and adolescents.

Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, Director-General of FCA, stated, "This partnership with NYU’s Silver School of Social Work and NYUAD is a testament to our dedication to fostering excellence within our organisation. It is also a significant stride towards realising our commitment to the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy."

Dr. Al Mulla added, "By investing in this tailor-made program, our aim is to provide our skilled and talented case managers with world-class education. This will position them among the most highly qualified social workers globally. Our goal is to empower them with the necessary knowledge and skills to become social work leaders, enabling them to serve the Abu Dhabi community members at the most optimal level."

Dr. Michael A. Lindsey, Dean and Paulette Goddard Professor of Social Work at NYU Silver School of Social Work, emphasised their commitment to training the next generation of social workers worldwide. "Our collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development, and NYU Abu Dhabi is the first of its kind partnership in the region," he said.

Global Collaboration

Dr. Lindsey added, "We are honoured to have the opportunity to help train Emirati social workers with best-in-class clinical and case management skills that will translate into improved care for Abu Dhabi community members throughout their lifespan."

Arlie Petters, Provost at NYU Abu Dhabi, expressed enthusiasm about solidifying their partnership with FCA. "This partnership opens doors for groundbreaking research, strengthens collaboration, and fosters innovation in addressing family care challenges," he stated.

Future Plans

Future plans include an exchange program and further training initiatives. FCA case managers will have opportunities to complete their master's degree in New York City, fostering international collaboration and enriching their learning experience.

With inputs from WAM