The Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi signed a memorandum of understanding and cooperation with the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, at the DCD headquarters.
The MoU was signed with the objective of enhancing collaboration in social research, facilitating the exchange of experiences related to existing and emerging social challenges and phenomena in a way that reinforces the DCD’s evidence-based approach to policymaking as the leading entity of the social sector in the emirate.
Commenting on the MoU, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Hosani, Executive Director of the Social Monitoring and Innovation Sector at the DCD, said: “The Department of Community Development strives to strengthen the pioneering social sector of the emirate and improve the quality of life for both citizens and residents. This is where the memorandum of understanding with the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research comes in. The collaboration with the Foundation empowers highly professional and specialised teams in dealing with social issues, in addition to enhancing the exchange of experiences and expanding cooperation frameworks between the DCD and research think tanks in the UAE.”
Al Hosani added: “We are keen to permanently strengthen our partnerships by implementing the right research, data and statistics that reflect our social reality transparently. This will aid with monitoring and addressing challenges and social phenomena of all kinds to find the appropriate solutions, ensuring a decent life for all individuals of society.”
Dr. Natasha Ridge, Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, said: “We are pleased to highlight the importance of the MoU between the Department of Community Development and the Al Qasimi Foundation, as this cooperation reflects our commitment to enhancing interaction between the social and academic sectors. By using our joint efforts towards research and innovation, we look forward to identifying social challenges and providing effective solutions that contribute to developing society and improving the quality of life in the Emirate.”
The MoU will enhance cooperation between DCD and the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research in order to explore future opportunities in the field of scientific and academic research methodology development, sharing the outputs of research projects in relevant social fields, and cooperation in developing research skills to achieve the vision of both the department and the Foundation.
The MoU also facilitates the provision of technical and advisory services, the exchange of expertise and information in the field of social research, the exchange of scientific materials, publications and writings related to the social sector, and any other areas of cooperation that contribute to fostering a thriving Abu Dhabi community.