The Family Care Authority (FCA) has partnered with New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) to launch the Case Management Professional Development Program. The programme, spearheaded by NYU’s Silver School of Social Work, aims to elevate the skills and expertise of FCA's case managers, positioning them among the most highly-qualified social sector workers globally. This collaboration marks NYU’s Silver School of Social Work’s inaugural social sector partnership in the UAE and underlines FCA's commitment to investing in world-class education to enhance the social sector in Abu Dhabi. The tailor-made programme, will empower FCA's case managers with international best practices, thereby enriching the UAE's social services system.

The programme's curriculum will be comprehensive and will provide participants with a deeper understanding of case management practice, strengthen their theoretical perspectives, and ground their approach in cultural context. It will cover a foundational understanding of case management, followed by exposure to all aspects of practice, and a specialised training focusing on people of determination, the elderly, children, and adolescents.

Her Excellency Dr Bushra Al Mulla, Director General of the Family Care Authority, stated: "This partnership with New York University Abu Dhabi, and NYU’s Silver School of Social Work is not only a testament to our dedication to fostering excellence within our organisation but also a significant stride towards realising our commitment to the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy. In line with the FCA's mandate and vision, we are constantly identifying new and innovative ways to enhance family care services in Abu Dhabi and elevate the entire social sector.

“By investing in this tailor-made programme, our aim is to provide our skilled and talented FCA case managers with world-class education. This will position them amongst the most highly qualified social sector workers globally. Our goal is to empower them with the necessary knowledge and skills to become social work leaders, enabling them to serve the Abu Dhabi community members at the most optimal level.

“We are delighted to pioneer this first-of-its-kind partnership. Collaborating alongside NYU Silver, we have taken the lead in developing this innovative programme, reflecting our role as innovators in the field of social care and education."

Dr Michael A. Lindsey, the School’s Dean and Paulette Goddard Professor of Social Work said: “The NYU Silver School of Social Work is committed to training the next generation of social workers, not just in the United States, but worldwide. Our collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Family Care Authority, Abu Dhabi Department of Community Development, and NYU Abu Dhabi is the first of its kind partnership in the region. We are honoured to have the opportunity to help train Emirati social workers with best in class clinical and case management skills that will translate into improved care for Abu Dhabi community members throughout their lifespan. We also look forward to exploring further opportunities to partner and support His Excellency Dr Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, the leadership of FCA, Her Excellency Dr Bushra Al Mulla and Her Excellency Asma Sulaiman Alazri, and our colleagues at NYU Abu Dhabi.”

Arlie Petters, Provost at NYU Abu Dhabi, said: “We are thrilled to solidify our partnership with the Family Care Authority. This partnership opens doors for groundbreaking research, strengthens collaboration, and fosters innovation in addressing family care challenges. NYUAD's commitment to research and community engagement complements FCA's mission to support social entities, empower families, children, and youth, and enhance the existing family care model. Through this partnership, NYUAD and ADFCA aim to foster talent, innovate solutions, and contribute to the social well-being of the UAE."

Future plans include an exchange programme and further training for FCA staff in New York City, fostering international collaboration and enriching the learning experience.