Abu Dhabi: Jasour – News Desk
The World Federation of the Special Needs organized its 14th annual ceremony in Sharjah to honor institutions that have committed to making their facilities accessible and friendly to individuals with special needs.
The event was attended by Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Member of the Executive Council of Sharjah and Head of the Suburbs and Villages Affairs Department, Dr. Tarek Sultan bin Khadim, Vice President of the World Federation of the Special Needs, and Haidar Talib Rabee, Secretary-General of the Federation.
Dr. Tarek Sultan bin Khadim expressed his profound gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous support for the rights of individuals with special needs and his noble directives to make Sharjah a global model for an inclusive environment for this important segment of society.
Bin Khadim also extended his appreciation to the 23 honored institutions from the UAE, as well as to a commercial center in Pakistan for its efforts in making its environment accessible to individuals with special needs. He highlighted that this ceremony coincides with the 6th anniversary of the World Federation of the Special Needs certificate, launched in 2019, which has been awarded to over 150 institutions in several countries in recognition of their commitment to providing inclusive and sustainable environments.
He emphasized that these initiatives are part of the Federation’s efforts to promote best practices that support the rights of individuals with special needs. The honored institutions adhere to the latest global standards in making their facilities accessible and ensuring equal opportunities in education, employment, and public services. The Federation is also keen on supporting assistive technologies and developing digital solutions that enhance the integration of individuals with special needs into various sectors.
In a new step towards enhancing efforts in this field, the Vice President of the World Federation of the Special Needs announced the launch of the “World Federation of the Special Needs Medal,” which will be awarded to outstanding individuals supporting special needs causes, in recognition of their contributions and efforts in building more inclusive and equitable communities.
This recognition is part of the World Federation of the Special Needs’ commitment to raising awareness about the importance of building accessible environments and encouraging institutions to adopt policies that ensure ease of access, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals with special needs and supporting their aspirations for a more independent and active participation in society.
