Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
In the mission to save lives during emergencies, every individual matters. On Monday, Rabdan Academy emphasised this principle by turning the spotlight on the critical inclusion of people of determination in contingency planning.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, the academy convened its inaugural Inclusivity in Safety Conference, highlighting the role of inclusion, cooperation, and empathy in building safer and more resilient communities.
At the event, James Morse, President of Rabdan Academy, pointed out the need for an inclusive, human-centred response to emergencies.
"We have got to make sure we take into account each individual. And we have got to make sure we do not exclude anyone - because inclusion means everyone," he said in his welcome address.
"We need more awareness, cooperation - and to listen, especially to the perspectives of people of determination."
Power of Inclusion
In line with the goals of the Year of Community, the conference gathered experts and officials who exchanged strategies and shared insights aimed at fostering secure and inclusive communities.
Among them was Dubai Police's Wadha Anwar Hassan, who recounted how a personal experience as a person of determination shaped her career. In 2020, Hassan found herself alone during a fire drill - an experience that fuelled a passion to advocate for inclusive emergency planning.
"I stand today before you not just as a person of determination," she said, "but as someone who believes deeply in the power of inclusion."
Hassan is now part of Dubai Police's tourist division, where she dedicates herself to educating others about the unique needs of people of determination during emergency situations.
"Safety should be for everybody, not only for a bunch of people," she said.
A National Commitment
In his keynote, Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, affirmed the UAE's strong commitment to inclusive safety."This event reflects our firm national commitment to enhancing comprehensive safety that considers the needs of all segments of society, foremost among them being the people of determination," Al Humaidan said.
Highlighting the role of empowerment, he said: "A true safe society is one where everyone feels seen, heard, and their needs respected without exceptions. At Zayed Higher Organization, we believe that safety is a fundamental right for all."
Speaking to Aletihad on the sidelines of the conference, Dr. Naji Al Seiari, Dean of Faculty and Director of the Research and Innovation Division at Rabdan Academy, outlined how the UAE is setting a benchmark in inclusive emergency preparedness.
"The UAE is leading by integrating people of determination into national emergency frameworks through training and technology," Dr. Al Seiari said.
VR simulation tools are employed, and inclusive protocols are established. "These innovations are set to inform national doctrine and inspire regional alignment in inclusive preparedness," he said.
Rabdan Academy is incorporating inclusive practices into its safety curriculum, especially in policing, by utilising simulation-based training and culturally informed methods, Dr. Al Seiari added.
"Hands-on simulations demonstrate real-time decision-making and identify response gaps when dealing with people of determination. AI and geolocation tools enhance situational awareness, communication, and POD-specific dispatch protocols. These technologies are expected to enhance national KPIs on accessibility, response time, and victim safety."
Dr. Al Seiari also highlighted the growing involvement of people of determination in shaping national policy: "They are now increasingly engaged through consultative forums and stakeholder panels such as this (conference)."
