Qatar National Bank (QNB) has demonstrated its ongoing commitment to social inclusion with a major sponsorship of the ‘Empower Ability’ program. Implemented by the Qatar Career Development Centre (QCDC), a foundation of Qatar Foundation, the program focuses on equipping young people with disabilities with skills for civic participation. The initiative recently concluded a series of workshops in Doha, preparing students for National Day events and broader volunteer efforts.
The QCDC delivered the intensive training sessions to students with disabilities throughout January 2024, according to a press release. These workshops focused on practical skill-building and fostering self-assurance, crucial elements in supporting greater engagement within the community. QNB’s support helps ensure the program remains accessible and continues to expand its reach.
QNB’s Support Strengthens Qatar’s Social Inclusion Initiatives
QNB’s sponsorship of Empower Ability aligns with the bank’s broader corporate social responsibility strategy and Qatar’s National Vision 2030. This long-term vision emphasizes sustainable development and human capital, with a specific focus on creating a more inclusive and equitable society. The bank views social inclusion as vital for national progress.
The Empower Ability program specifically targets the development of practical skills relevant to volunteering and participation in national events, like Qatar National Day. Workshops included training on event logistics, communication techniques, and teamwork, as well as building general workplace readiness. However, the program’s scope extends beyond immediate event support.
Boosting Confidence and Employability
A core component of Empower Ability is boosting participants’ self-confidence. The QCDC designed the program to create a supportive environment where students can practice new skills and challenge preconceived notions about their abilities. This focus on personal development is considered key to long-term success in any field.
The initiative also aims to improve employability prospects for individuals with disabilities. While details of specific employment partnerships weren’t disclosed, the skills learned – such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving – are highly valued by employers across various sectors. Qatar has been making strides in improving labor rights and accessibility.
The need for programs like Empower Ability is underscored by demographic trends. The population of Qatar is relatively young, and ensuring opportunities for all young people, including those with disabilities, is essential for sustained economic growth and Qatar Foundation’s overall mission of fostering a knowledge-based society.
QCDC regularly partners with organizations like QNB to deliver impactful career development programs. These collaborations are critical to scaling up initiatives and reaching a wider audience. The programs are designed to respond to national priorities and address the specific needs of different segments of the population.
Looking ahead, QCDC plans to evaluate the impact of the recent Empower Ability sessions and use the data to refine future iterations of the program. Continued funding and collaborative partnerships will be essential for sustaining momentum and expanding access to these valuable resources. The focus will likely remain on enhancing the skills and confidence of individuals with disabilities, enabling them to contribute more fully to Qatar’s society and economy.
The timing of these workshops coincides with increasing national focus on volunteerism, particularly surrounding large-scale events like the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and ongoing development projects. This year’s program will likely inform future efforts to integrate individuals with disabilities into future national celebrations.
