Abu Dhabi Launches Social Care Scholarships to Strengthen National Talent Development
The Department of Community Development (DCD) and the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) have announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the social care sector in Abu Dhabi through the activation of scholarships. This initiative is part of the broader Abu Dhabi Scholarships Programme, designed to cultivate national talent in key social and psychological disciplines.
Commitment to National Talent
This strategic initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s dedication to investing in its citizens while bolstering the sustainability of the social care sector. The scholarships aim to prepare and qualify Emirati professionals to meet community needs, adhering to the highest professional and regulatory standards.
The launch of this program comes at a time when Abu Dhabi’s social care sector is experiencing rapid growth. There is an increasing number of service providers and a wider array of services being offered, alongside a rising demand for qualified social and psychological professionals. However, the supply of specialized national talent remains limited, highlighting the necessity for targeted educational interventions.
Educational Pathways for Emirati Students
The program specifically targets Emirati students interested in pursuing degrees in social work and psychology at both undergraduate and master’s levels. Scholarships will be available through established pathways at leading international universities, thereby enhancing the appeal of these fields as sustainable career options with significant social value.
At the undergraduate level, the focus will be on social work and psychology. For master’s students, particularly those who are currently unemployed, the program will offer specializations in family counseling, social work, psychology, counseling psychology, and psychotherapy. A pilot pathway will be introduced this year under the approved scholarship system.
Strategic Investment in Social Care
Mubarak Salem Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Licensing and Social Control Sector at DCD, emphasized that this initiative represents a strategic investment in human capital. He stated that the program aligns with the department’s vision to create a sustainable social care system led by qualified national professionals capable of addressing evolving social needs.
He noted that by enabling Emirati youth to pursue specialized disciplines at top international universities, the initiative promotes a development model focused on prevention, empowerment, and long-term impact, thereby enhancing social well-being and quality of life in Abu Dhabi.
Collaborative Efforts for Empowerment
Dr. Ahmed Sultan Al Shuaibi, Executive Director of the Talent Enablement Sector at ADEK, highlighted the importance of collaboration between DCD and ADEK. He stated that this partnership reinforces a multi-agency commitment to empowering Emirati students through an integrated approach that encompasses both academic guidance and professional development.
He added that the initiative aligns with national priorities that place family and social cohesion at the center of development, building on ADEK’s role in directing academic pathways toward sectors that serve the community and support social and economic development in Abu Dhabi.
Addressing Sector Needs
Mahasen Alhosani, Director of the Social Standards Division at DCD, explained that the program has been designed to align with the evolving needs of the social sector. It aims to provide beneficiaries with clear educational pathways and sustainable career opportunities.
The program is targeted at a select group of outstanding Emirati students who will be chosen to pursue priority disciplines in social care. Beneficiaries will receive comprehensive support, including full tuition coverage, practical training opportunities, and professional guidance. This integrated approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the licensing system and contribute effectively to the social care sector.
Alhosani further elaborated that the program aims to attract both undergraduate and master’s students, with the first cohort expected to commence in 2026. This initiative is anticipated to play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the supply and demand for specialized talent, while also enhancing the overall quality of social services provided to the community.
Promoting Social Care Careers
The program primarily targets secondary school students, recent graduates, and academic counselors. Its core message emphasizes that a career in social care is not merely a job but a meaningful profession capable of creating lasting and positive impacts on society.
As reported by www.emirates247.com, this initiative is expected to significantly contribute to the development of a robust social care workforce in Abu Dhabi.
Follow the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-03-29 18:56:00 • By Editorial Desk
