Amman: Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa and Ford Foundation President Heather Gerken engaged in discussions aimed at expanding cooperation in the areas of social protection, disability inclusion, civil society, and the government's social development priorities.
According to Jordan News Agency, the collaboration is expected to support key initiatives under Jordan's National Social Protection Strategy (2025-2033), the Economic Modernisation Vision (2022-2033), and related national frameworks. Minister Bani Mustafa outlined the ministry's efforts to empower persons with disabilities, enhance vocational and technical training linked to labor market demands, and foster partnerships with the private sector to offer inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities.
Minister Bani Mustafa also highlighted collaboration with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to create an institutional seal for disability-friendly organizations. This initiative aims to promote accessibility, inclusion, and the development of inclusive workplaces and services. She emphasized the ministry's gradual shift from institutional care towards alternative accommodation, family-based care, and community services. The transformation of the Al-Amal Center in Russeifa into an inclusive day-service center marks progress toward this model, targeted for advancement by 2027.
The ministry plans to enhance family integration, inclusive day centers, and establish fixed and mobile early-intervention units for persons with disabilities. In terms of digital transformation, Bani Mustafa discussed developing systems such as the Jordan Social Registry, a social early-warning system, the "Aoun" donations platform, a unified financing window, and orphan sponsorship services. These initiatives aim to improve electronic oversight of residential care facilities and automate services.
Further, Bani Mustafa addressed ongoing cooperation with the Ford Foundation on classifying civil society associations and the potential development of the "Takamol" platform to enhance data management and integration with government systems. Gerken affirmed the Ford Foundation's commitment to continued collaboration on social protection, civil society empowerment, inclusion, and participation. Both parties agreed to maintain consultations on proposed cooperative areas and priorities for the forthcoming phase.