Kuwait celebrates success of ‘Partners for Employment’ initiative empowering persons with disabilities
Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila, praised the “Partners for Employment” initiative as a reflection of Kuwait’s belief that disability is not a limitation, but a source of strength, creativity, and ambition. Speaking via video conference at the graduation ceremony of the sixth batch of program participants, she highlighted the country’s continuous efforts since 2018 to offer equal employment opportunities to persons with disabilities through partnerships with various official entities and organizations.
Dr. Al-Huwaila extended her gratitude to all supporting institutions, including the Public Authority for Persons with Disabilities, the Human Construction Society, the UN Representative’s Office in Kuwait, the Public Authority for Minors Affairs, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, Kuwait University, and both public and private sectors. Their collaborative efforts have helped create an environment of inclusion and professional growth for the disabled community, reports Al-Rai daily.
Ghada Al-Taher, the UN Secretary-General’s Representative and Resident Coordinator to Kuwait, commended the initiative as a tangible expression of Kuwait’s commitment to integrating persons with disabilities into society. She emphasized that the cooperation of both government and private entities in opening career paths supports the wider goal of inclusive development. Al-Taher acknowledged the dedication and achievements of the graduates as proof of their capability and resilience.
Dr. Ghaleb Al-Osaimi of the Human Construction Association revealed that 54 out of 123 graduates in the sixth batch secured employment—20 in the private and banking sectors and 34 in the government sector. He stressed the need for continued coordination before the launch of the seventh batch in October. Since the initiative’s inception, 381 individuals have participated, with 242 already employed, reflecting the program’s growing impact on integrating and empowering people with disabilities in Kuwait’s workforce.
Wafaa Al-Muhanna, Acting Director General of the Disability Authority, underscored the Authority’s obligation under Law No. 8 of 2010 to provide an inclusive environment and equal opportunities. She reiterated the Authority’s alignment with Kuwait’s national development plans, aiming to strengthen the role of persons with disabilities in the labor market. Dalal Al-Nouri, Director General of the Public Authority for Minors Affairs, reaffirmed financial and moral support for the initiative, especially for individuals with mental and learning disabilities under the Authority’s guardianship.
