Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched an inclusive initiative offering students from Al Karamah Training Institute (AKTI) the opportunity to explore professional opportunities with leading industry partners in Abu Dhabi. The initiative aligns with ADEK’s Inclusion Strategy for Students of Determination and is a significant milestone in the wider Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination.
Through trial work placements, the initiative aims to empower Students of Determination by offering them pathways to independent living and future employment opportunities. ADEK has partnered with industry leaders such as the Cultural Foundation, part of Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Holdings, PureHealth, Al Fahim Holding, RFLCT Creative Arts Centers, Rolling Wheels Entertainment and Elysian Flowers Boutique to create tailored placements for 23 Emirati Students of Determination, representing 30 per cent of the total student body at AKTI. These placements range from box office management and customer service to financial and administrative data handling, providing valuable skills development and work experience.
To ensure a supportive transition into these roles, ADEK has also implemented comprehensive training and development programs for industry partners, equipping them with the tools necessary to support and integrate the students effectively.
Her Excellency Sara Awadh Musallam, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, said: “Providing our students with opportunities to explore different career pathways is an investment in our society’s future. We remain committed to implementing key initiatives that foster an inclusive education system where every student can succeed beyond the classroom. By offering our students pathways to gain valuable experience and build their skills, we are shaping a more resilient and compassionate community that thrives on diversity."
Students joining the initiative are assessed based on their workforce readiness and performance during their placements. This assessment is used to develop personalised career paths, highlighting their strengths and identifying areas for further growth. Following on-the-job evaluations, students may pursue additional training, mentorship opportunities, and other short-term roles or be placed in long-term roles that align with their skills and aspirations, ensuring a sustainable future transition into the workforce.
His Excellency Dr Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi, said: “The inclusion initiative launched by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge reflects the ongoing collaborative efforts within the emirate to foster a disability-friendly environment for People of Determination. The initiative comes in line with the vision of our wise leadership to empower and support this important group in our society, enhance the role of People of Determination, and enable them to explore new career prospects that align with their abilities and skills and meet their aspirations. This pioneering initiative is a key milestone advancing the inclusive employment of People of Determination, which is one of the main pillars of Abu Dhabi's strategy for People of Determination, and significantly contributes to achieving effective inclusion for this group by providing sustainable and equitable job opportunities, ensuring their full participation in economic and social development.
“The inclusion initiative helps provide appropriate opportunities for People of Determination, enabling them to achieve their independence and contribute effectively to society. Through close cooperation, the Department of Community Development, with cooperation with partners in the government, private and third sectors works to activate programmes and initiatives that contribute to realising the shared vision of building an inclusive society that values diversity and excellence and gives everyone the opportunity to contribute to building a prosperous future for Abu Dhabi."
A thorough process was used to match students to suitable short-term roles, including detailed student profiling, specialist observations, tailored upskilling programmes, and close collaboration with industry partners. This approach ensures that both students and companies benefit from the experience.
The positive impact of this initiative has profoundly impacted families, with parents expressing gratitude for the transformative experiences their children are undergoing.
Mohamed Al Meharibi, the parent of 25-year-old Hamdan Al-Meharibi, said: “This opportunity allowed my son to connect with people beyond his usual circle, significantly enhancing his social skills and sense of belonging. The supportive work environment and collaborative spirit have played a crucial role in his integration into the community. Hamdan developed a more organised daily routine, positively impacting his overall wellbeing."
Mariam Almuhairi, parent of 16-year-old Marwan Jumma, said: “Being part of this initiative empowered my son to forge new social connections, expanding his network and boosting his self-confidence. The relationships he has built were not only valuable but also essential for his personal development. He became more accepting of embracing new challenges.”
ADEK’s Al Karamah Training Institute is a tailored education centre launched in 2021 to provide Abu Dhabi’s Students of Determination with access to vocational training in eight main areas of specialization, such as Technology, Creative Arts, and Business Administration.
