The inaugural edition of the Social Care Forum 2024 commenced today under the theme “Enhancing Innovation and Cooperation in Social Care,” drawing an exceptional gathering of leaders, experts, and decision-makers from around the world. The two-day event is organised by the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD), in partnership with Deloitte Middle East.
H.E. Shamma bint Sohail Faris Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Development, emphasized during her speech the significance of the forum as a vital platform that contributes to promoting innovation in the social sector.
She affirmed that innovation is the cornerstone of achieving comprehensive and sustainable development, noting that great ambitions require a vision that transcends challenges. She highlighted that we always look to the future with optimism and confidence, recognizing that continuous improvement in the quality of life is our ultimate goal.
Her Excellency added that the forum provides an opportunity to exchange experiences and expertise that enrich social work and elevate it to new levels, with a focus on developing sustainable initiatives that enhance the well-being of individuals and communities.
She continued, stating that development cannot be achieved without embracing new ideas, working as one team, and directing efforts towards realizing true positive impact. Addressing challenges requires collaboration and partnership on both local and international levels to find innovative and sustainable solutions that meet society's needs.
We believe that the future we are building today is a product of our commitment to continuous development and improvement, and creating an environment that fosters innovation, placing human development at the heart of every initiative.
HE Dr Mugheer Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi (DCD), commended the vibrant interaction the forum witnessed during its first day. He highlighted how the diverse insights shared by international experts enriched the discussions, emphasising the importance of the forum in shaping the future of social care and fostering global cooperation to drive innovation in the sector.
“We aspire for Abu Dhabi to be a model of excellence in social care provision, with a focus on innovation and global partnerships to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leading position and improve the quality of life for all residents,” Dr Al Khaili said.
HE Hessa Buhumaid, the Director General of Dubai’s Community Development Authority(CDA), stressed the need for inclusive discussions involving all stakeholders, specialists, and experts to explore strategies for professional development in social care and to tackle future challenges in the field.
Her Excellency explained that “The forum is held in a timely manner to engage all entities, stakeholders, and experts in a thorough discussion about how to best prepare social workers for future opportunities and challenges in terms of their skills, competencies, well-being, and emotional agility”.
Day one of the forum featured a panel discussion on “Global Trends in Social Services,” examining emerging needs, innovative practices, and the future of empowering and supporting individuals and communities worldwide.
Among the speakers was Sir Geoffrey John Mulgan CBE, Professor of Collective Intelligence, Public Policy and Social Innovation at University College London (UCL), who delivered a
keynote address on the latest global trends in social service design and delivery, along with emerging approaches shaping the future of social care.
The forum’s first day concluded with a series of sub-sessions that explored topics such as innovations in social services, the professional development of the social care workforce and continuing professional education, as well as the role of expressive arts in enhancing children’s growth and quality of life.
It featured over 40 speakers, including global thought leaders and experts, with 10 workshops and interactive sessions designed to empower professionals and develop their skills in the social care sector. Additionally, the forum featured an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations in social care, with participation from more than 10 government, private and third sector entities.
The forum drew a remarkable presence of prominent local and international figures, with extensive participation from social sector professionals, academics, and researchers eager to learn about the latest trends and innovative practices.
The forum aims to foster strategic dialogue on the best ways to enhance the skills and psychological well-being of social care professionals, ensuring their resilience in the face of future challenges. It also seeks to position Abu Dhabi as a global hub for innovation in sustainable social care.