Abu Dhabi: The National Rehabilitation Centre announced today the launch of a vocational training program, comprised of theoretical and practical courses. The program, a first of its kind, is part of the after-care initiatives provided by NRC, aiming to equip patients with essential skills to help reintegrate them into the workforce. This program is being realized by the UAE Academy, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI). The Academy developed the theoretical and training aspects of the program to meet the specific needs of the patients. Currently 9 patients are participating in the vocational training program and have all completed the treatment phases at NRC.
H.E. Dr. Hamad Al-Ghaferi, Director General of NRC said "this initiative plays an integral role in the patients' rehabilitation process, as it supports their integration back into society. The program aims to provide the participants with employment skills and vocational training; it instils in them essential work ethics and provides them with the necessary skills to enable them to actively take part in the workforce once again".
Dr. Hamad added "this initiative will be followed by similar initiatives all contributing to improve the lives of the patients, equipping them with numerous capacity building skills that will open the doors and provide opportunities for them to work in government and private institutions and thus can begin a new life after the devastating circumstances they have endured".
Dr. Hamad also praised the efforts of the UAE Academy in implementing this vital program, which shows promising results through the commitment exemplified by the current patients participating in the program.
This vocational training program extends for a period of 4 months, made up of 2 months of theoretical classes at the Academy and 2 months of field training in a number of institutions, with 332 hours of training on average. At the end of the 4 months, patients will achieve the International Computer Driving License (ICDL) certification, improve their communication skills, learn English as well as a variety of vocational skills such as problem solving, decision making, identifying problems and analyzing them, generating and evaluating ideas and finding the appropriate solutions.
The program also teaches patients how to work effectively in teams, how to apply for employment, by learning how to prepare a CV, passing the interview and other skills that enable them to manage effective dialogue with HR managers.
For his part, His Excellency Mohammed Rashed Al Hameli, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ADCCI) and Chairman of the UAE Academy stated "this agreement between the UAE Academy and the NRC is a first of its kind on the National level. It was designed by an academic team at the UAE Academy in cooperation with a medical team at the NRC with the aim of reintegrating reformed patients, thus making them productive and active members of society."
Al Hameli emphasized the Academy's pride in implementing this program, which in accordance with its role as an academic institution serving the community and addressing its needs in terms of education and training based on international standards applied in most prestigious institutions around the world.
Al Hameli also highlighted that the implementation of this vocational training program is in line with the Academy's mission in providing Emiratis with employment opportunities for a better future through education and training. The program is made up of 6 components; personal development, employment skills, professional skills, on the job training as well as other valuable skills and finally assessment and evaluation of trainees based on the skills they have learnt and their application.
The patients expressed their dedication to the program, for they have succeeded in attaining numerous skills like business English and obtaining the ICDL certification, which have led to increased self-esteem, hope for a better future, and more importantly, eliminating the fear of facing society once again.
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About National Rehabilitation Centre
Under the directive and guidance of the late President, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the National Rehabilitation Centre was established as a pioneering medical establishment in the region, providing specialized service to treat and rehabilitate those who suffer from substance misuse. The Centre enjoys the support and attention of the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince, General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.
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© Press Release 2010
