The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai has launched a new training programme aimed at qualifying social workers within government agencies. This initiative focuses on enhancing the skills of social professionals to better serve the community.

Partnership with the University of Birmingham

In collaboration with the University of Birmingham, the CDA’s programme will equip social workers with the latest knowledge and global best practices in social work. The training includes specialized courses covering various aspects of the field, ensuring that participants develop essential skills to support diverse segments of society.

Addressing Skill Gaps in the Social Sector

The programme begins with a thorough analysis of skill gaps in Dubai’s social sector, including a review of current regulations and how professional qualifications align with international standards. Based on these findings, targeted training will focus on key specializations such as:

  • Child Protection
  • Elderly Support
  • Social Case Management

These targeted programmes will enable professionals to acquire advanced skills tailored to meet local community needs.

Impact on Society

Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, director-general of the CDA, stated, “This initiative will prepare professional cadres capable of creating a sustainable, positive impact on society.” The training aims to enhance the efficiency of social sector workers and foster a new generation of qualified social leaders equipped to tackle future challenges.

Introductory Workshop

The training programme will kick off with an introductory workshop, bringing together 121 professionals, including social specialists and counselors from Dubai’s government agencies.Dr. Anthony Murphy from the University of Birmingham expressed excitement about this partnership, emphasizing the importance of sharing knowledge and expertise in pursuit of excellence in social work.

Conclusion

This training programme aligns with the objectives of Dubai Social Agenda 33, reinforcing the CDA’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce capable of addressing current and future social challenges in Dubai. By investing in the professional development of social workers, Dubai aims to enhance community support and improve overall quality of life.