Abu Dhabi
Zayed Authority for People of Determination continues its efforts to empower its members through the Accredited Vocational Program, which grants participants a Level 2 Certificate in General Employability Skills, in collaboration with the National Qualifications Center and the Ministries of Higher Education and Family Development.
In line with the implementation of the Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination 2020–2024, Zayed Authority for People of Determination continues its efforts to empower its members through the Accredited Vocational Program, which grants participants a Level 2 Certificate in General Employability Skills, in collaboration with the National Qualifications Center and the Ministries of Higher Education and Family Development.
The Authority has launched the first practical phase of the program under the title “Employment Program and Career Opportunities Framework for People of Determination”, with the participation of 83 trainees with moderate intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder, in cooperation with six key entities representing eight sectors. These include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center, Strata Manufacturing, Aldar Group, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Maktaba, and Silal Company, alongside community partners who have provided inclusive workplaces that enable trainees to apply their skills and gain hands-on experience.
The program aims to empower People of Determination to apply their theoretical knowledge in real work environments, thereby enhancing their professional independence and confidence in joining the labor market. It focuses on developing communication skills, time management, teamwork, and the application of occupational safety standards — all under the supervision of qualified specialists and instructors.
Spanning six months, the program includes 615 training hours divided into 20 learning modules, covering diverse areas such as hospitality, handicrafts, printing, design and tailoring, carpentry, cooking, and agriculture. Graduates receive a nationally recognized certificate qualifying them to work in various professional fields or launch their own entrepreneurial projects.
His Excellency Abdullah Al Humaidan, Director-General of Zayed Authority for People of Determination, affirmed that the launch of the field phase represents “a qualitative shift from classroom learning to hands-on application in real-life work environments,” emphasizing that “true empowerment begins when we give our sons and daughters the opportunity to prove their abilities in the field.”
He added that the Authority is committed to building an integrated vocational education system that aligns with the highest international standards and is inspired by the wise leadership’s vision of achieving full inclusion. He noted that this phase is not merely a training period, but a life experience that enables People of Determination to gain confidence, achieve economic and social independence, and contribute effectively to sustainable development.
H.E. Al Humaidan concluded by reaffirming that, with the support of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi, the Authority will continue working with local and international partners to expand training and employment opportunities and to launch specialized programs in digital and technological skills, enhancing the readiness of People of Determination for the jobs of the future. He also expressed his gratitude to the participating government and private entities, stressing that this collaboration embodies the spirit of partnership and social responsibility, and reflects Zayed’s vision of building and empowering humanity.
Page Last Update: 22 October 2025