Dubai: The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and the British University in Dubai (BUiD) signed an agreement to enhance the capacities of licensed social workers, which include social work aids and aspiring social care professionals. The move aims to contribute to the advancement of social services standards and the completion of the capacity building program in the social services sector. 

As part of the agreement, the British University will be responsible for enhancing training programs for selected applicants in accordance with the type of professional licenses awarded by CDA. The agreement was signed by H.E. Ahmad Julfar, Director General of CDA, and Professor Dr. Abdullah AlShamsi, Director-General of BUiD.

H.E. Ahmad Julfar emphasized that the agreement provides simplified procedures and a comprehensive methodology to raise the standards of social work services. In addition, the adoption of a unified level of quality for services guarantees the rights for clients' access to trusted services and adds to the credibility of service providers. 

Julfar said that this cooperation with the British University has contributed over the years to the development of a scientific methodology for professional licensing which has led to increased CDA’s licensed social professionals. 

On his part, Professor Abdullah AlShamsi said: “We are pleased to sign the agreement of “Social Workers’ Capacity Building Program” with the CDA which is the result of our ongoing cooperation, aimed at enhancing the capacities of professional social workers and those who are aspiring to be licensed by the CDA in line with the highest standards. Through this agreement, the university seeks to leverage its capabilities and expertise to transform the Emirate of Dubai into an ideal place for all community segments.” 

Dr. Omar Al-Muthanna, Chief Executive Officer of the Social Regulatory and Licensing for CDA, said: “This step provides a significant opportunity to enhance the capacities of social work aids using a comprehensive scientific methodology that is aligned with CDA’s work standards. The training candidates selected by the authority will immensely benefit from the training sessions that suit the nature of licenses they will get.” 

Professor Eman Gaad, Dean of the Faculty of Education and Director of Social Auxiliary Workers’ Capacity Building Program commended the signing of the agreement which is within the shared goals of BUiD and CDA to enhance the level of capacities of social services providers in order to meet the needs of clients and stakeholders.