Over 190 Global Experts To Speak At World Congress On Rehabilitation 2024

Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO), the World Congress on Rehabilitation (WCR) 2024 has unveiled its keynote speakers. The event will feature over 190 speakers and chairs from around the globe, who will gather to discuss challenges faced by people of determination in the workplace.

Keynote speakers will highlight the importance of social security in rehabilitation, promoting employment, and ensuring access to quality healthcare and technology for people of determination. These elements are crucial for fostering inclusion. The congress will host more than 30 sessions over three days, including 24 parallel sessions, eight plenary sessions, and three masterclasses informed by prior research.

The event will commence with an opening ceremony on September 23. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, will address attendees during this ceremony. Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health-Abu Dhabi, will also speak as a keynote speaker.

Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of ZHO and Deputy Vice-President for the MENA Region of Rehabilitation International (RI), will share his insights at the event. He stated, "The World Congress on Rehabilitation is a unique opportunity to foster innovative approaches and collaborative efforts that will redefine rehabilitation practices globally." He emphasised creating a platform for experts to share knowledge and inspire change.

Over the course of three days, notable figures such as Zhang Haidi, President of Rehabilitation International; Mohammed Azman, President of ISSA; and Annette Tabbara, Director-General Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, will speak at the event. Gabriela Michetti, former Vice-President of Argentina, will focus on developing public policies for inclusion and employment.

Diverse Representation

Dr. Haifa Al Kaylani, President and Founder of the Arab International Women’s Forum, is also set to speak at the congress. She will draw on her extensive expertise to address participants. Darryl Barrett from WHO will lead discussions on disability inclusion in health sectors among WHO Member States.

The event is co-organised by Rehabilitation International (RI Global), ISSA, and ZHO. It marks a significant milestone as it is being held in the region for the first time from September 23–25, 2024. Notably, 30 percent of speakers are from the Middle East with 49 participants hailing from the UAE.

The congress aims to create a collaborative environment where experts can share their knowledge to improve rehabilitation practices worldwide. By addressing barriers faced by people of determination in workplaces and promoting inclusive policies, WCR 2024 seeks to make a lasting impact.

With inputs from WAM