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The UAE has set up a new Family Ministry, renamed the Community Development Minister to Community Empowerment, and set up a new Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council, under the directives of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, according to the Dubai Media Office.
The Family Ministry will be led by Sana bint Mohammad Suhail (LinkedIn), and will manage grants, counseling, and programs for prospective couples. The ministry will also conduct studies and propose policies to increase fertility rates among Emirati families. It also aims to set out measures to protect families and individuals from violence, and to boost child welfare through new policies and strategies, as well as develop strategies to protect and empower vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities, senior citizens, orphans, and victims of abuse, and develop standards for licensing social care institutions and training social workers.
The Community Development Ministry — now the Community Empowerment Ministry –- will focus on designing effective social support systems to enhance the quality of life for lower-income families. The ministry will continue to be led by Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, with the former ministry operating throughout next year as the new ministries take the helm through a gradual transition plan.
What are the responsibilities of the new ministry? This ministry will also regulate and license non-profit organizations, assess their impact, and provide financial and technical support. It will also promote volunteering across sectors and design initiatives and will oversee licensing and regulation of non-Muslim worship facilities.
The Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council will oversee the work of the ministries and ensure that their plans align.
