Amman:Minister of Social Development Wafa Bani Mustafa and an Omani delegation held discussions on Sunday aimed at expanding cooperation in social protection and disability inclusion. The discussions included vocational training, specialized services, and inclusive programs.
According to Jordan News Agency, the Omani delegation was led by Abdullah Al-Harthi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development for Persons with Disabilities Affairs. The meeting was also attended by Omani Ambassador to Jordan Fahad Alojaili.
During the meeting, Bani Mustafa outlined Jordan's approach to social protection, focusing on the shift from institutional care to community inclusion, as guided by the 2017 Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This law emphasizes shared responsibilities across sectors and a rights-based approach to services. She also highlighted the enshrinement of disability rights in Jordan's Constitution and national plans, which support participation and inclusion.
Bani Mustafa underscored His Majesty King Abdullah II's role in co-chairing the third Global Disability Summit in Berlin and the establishment of the Royal Academy for Inclusive Education. She emphasized the importance of coordination among relevant institutions, especially the ministries of Education and Health. The ministry is expanding early intervention units as part of its transition toward community-based care, while also regulating and licensing care-related professions and services.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, a unified platform is being developed to list licensed care providers, aiming to assist families and curb unlicensed services. Bani Mustafa commended Oman's advancements in social protection, particularly for persons with disabilities, and stressed the mutual benefits of exchanging expertise.
Al-Harthi expressed interest in learning from Jordan's experience in social protection and disability services. The discussions also covered potential cooperation in vocational training, rehabilitation, specialized services, and showcasing the artistic and cultural talents of persons with disabilities.