DUBAI: H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO), attended the opening of the World Congress on Rehabilitation 2024 (WCR 2024), taking place until 25th September, 2024, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, under the theme ‘Work and Employment’. The event is being held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed for the first time in the Middle East under the theme ‘Work and Rehabilitation’.
Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of ZHO and Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa region at Rehabilitation International, said that the WCR is not only about showcasing achievements in this field but also about offering a platform for learning from global leaders and experts, as well as from distinguished experiences that reinforce principles of justice and inclusion.
Al Humaidan said, “The congress holds great significance as it brings together a group of the most important experts from arou
nd the world. The diverse experiences and expertise shared in this year’s edition stand as evidence of the commitment to developing the rehabilitation and inclusivity sector globally. The presence of global experts, policymakers, and investors will ensure that the discussions during the WCR play a major role in shaping best practices in inclusivity and transformational solutions that will benefit individuals and communities, as we lay the foundation for a more inclusive future for all.”
He continued, “In the UAE, our commitment to the rights and inclusion of People of Determination is a fundamental pillar of our national visions and strategies. This congress serves as a pivotal moment in our journey toward creating a world where opportunities are available to all, regardless of their abilities, allowing them to thrive and contribute to the betterment of society.”
Zhang Haidi, Chairwoman of Rehabilitation International, said, “The rehabilitation sector focuses on transforming the lives of People of Determina
tion. We are currently witnessing numerous examples of this transformation, such as individuals with hearing impairments regaining their ability to hear through cochlear implants, and those with spinal cord injuries being able to stand and walk again using exoskeleton technology. Rehabilitation technologies significantly contribute to the continuous advancements in brain sciences and artificial intelligence. We hope that Rehabilitation International will play an even greater role in the future. Let us work together to create a more inclusive world where People of Determination can lead inspiring lives.”
The event commenced with a panel discussion titled “Empowering Diversity: Inclusion, Employment, and Participation of People of Determination”, moderated by Al Humaidan.
The session discussed key topics, including developing public policies and institutional frameworks for inclusion, employment, and participation of People of Determination, retaining skilled labour through effective rehabilitation, pathways
to inclusive work life, and breaking barriers to build the future by enhancing the economic empowerment of women with disabilities.
WCR 2024 is part of a collaboration between Rehabilitation International (RI), the International Social Security Association (ISSA), and Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination. The event is seeing the participation of more than 800 participants from over 70 countries, including leaders, officials, experts, academics, researchers in the rehabilitation and healthcare sectors, service providers, and representatives of public and private institutions dedicated to improving the quality of life for People of Determination. Additionally, 20 local entities are participating, with remote access available for following the conference sessions and workshops online.
The current edition of the event aims to enhance the quality of life for People of Determination and identify distinguished individuals leading change, innovation, and empowerment in the field of rehabilitation.
The congress offers an opportunity to benefit from the experiences of successful countries in caring for and rehabilitating People of Determination, with over 190 speakers, including 30 representing the UAE, who will present 70 scientific studies and research papers across more than 30 working sessions.
The opening ceremony was attended by several diplomats, international figures, representatives of global organisations, as well as a number of UAE officials.
Source: Emirates News Agency