Amman: Minister of Social Development and Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Aid Fund Wafaa Bani Mustafa highlighted the importance of early investment in the skills and potential of persons with disabilities as a fundamental aspect of sustainable development and social progress. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for children of National Aid Fund beneficiaries with disabilities, she emphasized that such initiatives not only enhance productivity and independence but also secure a future that upholds human dignity.
According to Jordan News Agency, the graduation ceremony marked the completion of a specialized training program in hydroponics at the Vocational Training Center in Russeifa. This program was implemented through a collaboration between the National Aid Fund and the Vocational Training Corporation. Bani Mustafa noted the program's developmental and economic significance, as it provides participants with practical skills that facilitate employment and entrepreneurship, enabling them to transition from assistance dependency to active economic participation.
Bani Mustafa pointed out that 20 trainees graduated from the program out of more than 40 beneficiaries trained in hydroponics, which is considered a national priority sector due to its contribution to food security. She remarked that the initiative showcases effective cooperation with the Vocational Training Corporation, crucial in enhancing trainee capacities throughout the Kingdom. The program aligns with the National Strategy for Social Protection for Persons with Disabilities, particularly the Dignity pillar, by supporting the entry of beneficiaries' children into the labor market through tailored economic empowerment initiatives.
The Minister also mentioned that the Ministry of Social Development is focused on sustaining the training outcomes by linking graduates with opportunities to establish productive projects in collaboration with the voluntary sector in Zarqa Governorate. She highlighted the need to develop mechanisms to expand the initiative and secure necessary resources for enduring economic empowerment.
National Aid Fund Director General Khitam Shinikat described the hydroponics program as more than vocational training, emphasizing it as a testament to the potential of individuals when provided with suitable opportunities and support. Shinikat noted that in 2025, the Fund intensified efforts to achieve measurable economic empowerment outcomes, with 40 persons with disabilities benefiting from empowerment programs and 166 integrated into the labor market via the national employment platform "Sajjil" or "Sign UP." She added that the total number of trainees reached 2,447.
Shinikat further mentioned that the Fund, in partnership with the Vocational Training Corporation, ensured an inclusive training environment by offering safe transportation and essential logistical support to guarantee participants' regular attendance and program continuity.