The Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities has announced the launch of the second edition of the “Is’haam” initiative. This initiative focuses on involving the Centre’s members and graduates in various work environments within public and private institutions. It is part of ongoing efforts to broaden the participation of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism in the labour market.
The initiative is one of several programs implemented by various entities in accordance with national laws, including Law No. (2) of 2004 concerning persons with special needs, which stipulates in Article 5 that at least 2% of jobs in both public and private sectors must be allocated to qualified persons with disabilities.
Additionally, Law No. (15) of 2016 on Civil Human Resources affirms the obligation of government entities to provide work environments suitable for the needs of persons with disabilities.
Article 8 of the same law further mandates the maintenance of updated records that include data on employees with disabilities, the type of jobs they hold, and the wages they receive.
These laws are based on clear definitions of persons with special needs, covering permanent disabilities in sensory, physical, psychological, or mental capacities. They specify rights in education, rehabilitation, employment, healthcare, housing, and transportation.
Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Shafallah Centre, explained that the slogan of the second edition of the “Is’haam” initiative reflects a comprehensive vision of an inclusive society that believes in involving all its members without exception.
She emphasised that a strong society embraces diversity and encourages collaboration to achieve common goals, noting that the initiative is a practical expression of this concept.
Al-Suwaidi clarified that the second edition of the initiative relies on involving the Centre’s members and graduates in real work tracks within various institutions, allowing them to interact directly with the public, thereby showcasing their skills and professional abilities.
She added that the primary goal is to expand societal awareness of the capabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism, and to create practical environments that facilitate their employment in both the public and private sectors.
She pointed out that these efforts align with the Qatar National Vision 2030, which prioritises the empowerment of vulnerable groups by providing training and qualification opportunities tailored to the labour market’s needs.
Al-Suwaidi also highlighted cooperation with several government and private entities, including the Ministry of Social Development and Family, the Ministry of Interior, Hamad International Airport, Qatar Museums, Qatar Airways, and Doha University for Science and Technology.
She also addressed the importance of the legal framework governing the rights of persons with disabilities, especially Law No. (2) of 2004, which stipulates the provision of suitable job opportunities and comprehensive professional training, ensuring equal opportunities and active participation in society.
In this context, Al-Suwaidi noted that the State of Qatar continues to strengthen its regional and international presence on disability issues. She pointed to Doha’s upcoming hosting of the Arab Day for Persons with Disabilities in December and the official announcement of Qatar hosting the Fourth Global Disability Summit in 2028 in collaboration with the International Disability Alliance.
The first edition of the “Is’haam” initiative, launched in May 2024 under the slogan “Career Day for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism,” saw broad participation from government and private entities. By offering real-life workplace opportunities, it contributed to opening direct career paths for Shafallah Centre members and graduates.
This experience helped highlight their capabilities and improve their chances of professional integration, while supporting collaborative efforts between institutions in employment, rehabilitation, and public awareness.
