Emirates Down Syndrome Association has praised the vision and unlimited support from our leadership for people of determination, and the support that the association has received, especially from the Ministry of Community Development, and other supporters and sponsors.

This came in association's press statement accompanying the celebrations of the World Health Organization and its partners of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st of each year, where the association's event was suspended as part of the precautionary and preventive measures adopted by the UAE to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The association chairperson, Dr. Manal Jaroor, congratulated people with Down syndrome and their families in the UAE and worldwide, and shed light on the progress made for people with down syndrome in UAE across various fields, such as; medical, rehabilitation, education, legal and policies fields, that led to improving the quality of life for people with Down syndrome and better include them into the society.

Dr. Jaroor pointed out that since its establishment in 2006, the association has set a clear vision and strategy towards providing all the services and support people with Down syndrome and their family's needs at highest level and standards. The association started its operation with basic services providing individual family counseling sessions, awareness campaigns, and events and activities for people with Down syndrome. In 2009, the association opened the development center, through which the association was able to provide supportive therapeutic services such as: physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy. Receiving the association permanent headquarters in within the generous initiatives of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, under the supervision of the Ministry of Presidential Affairs and the unlimited support from the Government of Dubai, was a major turning point for the association. It enabled the association to expand its reach to a larger number of beneficiaries and open (4) educational and rehabilitation classes.

Dr. Jaroor also extended her gratitude to all EDSA strategic sponsors and partners, who played a significant role in the remarkable achievements made by the association thus far, including, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group Charity Foundation, Union Cooperative Society, Emirates Red Crescent and the Malabar Gold & Diamonds

She added: The association provided its services to more than 530 beneficiaries at the country level, day after day the association reaps more accomplishments and rewards of the seeds that were planted initially by the association's founders, the most prominent accomplishment was the association's victory in hosting the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in Dubai. This is the first event of its kind to be held in the Middle East and North Africa, with an anticipated 1,200 delegates including with Down syndrome, their families, researchers, experts, and professionals and researchers in the field of Down syndrome.

The association also resumed the second phase of the self-advocacy programme for people with Down syndrome after successful completion of phase 1 in cooperation with Down Syndrome International (DSI). For the first time in UAE, the association was successfully able to organize such important program with a wide participation of 20 facilitators representing government institutions and private centers across the UAE and 35 self-advocates with Down syndrome.

The self-advocacy programme aims to empower and enable people with Down syndrome to express themselves and defend their rights in particular and People of Determination in general. People with Down syndrome have a voice that is insufficiently heard, and self-advocacy aims to highlight that voice.

"We Decide" was the theme launched by Down Syndrome International (DSI) for the World Down Syndrome Day 2020, emphasizing that all people with Down syndrome should have full participation in decision making about matters relating to or affecting their lives.

DUBAI: As part of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association's preparations to host the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC "Dubai 2021") held "remotely" under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister for Community Development, was briefed on the latest developments and arrangements for hosting the event scheduled on 18-20 November 2021.

During the meeting with the organising committee of the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC "Dubai 2021"), she listened to the presentation of Dr. Manal Jarour, president of the Congress who spoke about the latest updates and arrangements made by the National Organising Commitee with Down Syndrome International Organisation in the United Kingdom, the best achievements and successful practices in supporting and empowering people with Down Syndrome in the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC-DUBAI 2021).

Meanwhile, Dr. Manal Jarour, president of the Congress & Chairman of the Board of Directors of Emirates Down Syndrome Association, lauded the organising of the World Down Syndrome Congress for the first time in the Middle East and Northern Africa as a result of the association's efforts to improve the quality of services provided to the people of determination and the support provided by the UAE wise leadership to this category.

The WDSC will bring together an anticipated 1,500 delegates including people with Down syndrome, their families and advocates, experts, specialists and researchers in the field of Down

Syndrome. Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid received the banner of hosting the WDSC during the 13th session of the Congress in Glasgow, Scotland 2018.

The congress participants will discuss recent significant developments, quality research in key areas of global relevance to people with Down Syndrome and topics of interest such as: health, education, employment, sports, recreation and leisure, an adequate standard of living, the right to live an independent life, social protection, legal recognition and social and cultural inclusion.

Last year, Emirates Down Syndrome Association organised a number of self-advocacy programmes for the first time in the UAE in collaboration with the Down Syndrome International Congress in the UK.

The interactive training sessions highlighted the voice of Down Syndrome categories to express their needs and defend their rights and decisions.

Emirates Down Syndrome Association's sports team achieved impressive results at the 9th Regional Games of Special Olympics 2018

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) honored its sports team for their outstanding victory and the winning of gold, silver and bronze medals at the 9th Regional Games of Special Olympics, which was held in the capital Abu Dhabi during the period from 14 to 23 March 2018. This championship is considered as the region's largest multi-sports event for athletes with intellectual disabilities for the year 2018

Four players from Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) participated as part of the UAE Special Olympics team, competing with nearly 1,800 athletes with intellectual disabilities of all ages and abilities came together from across the region to win titles in 16 sports. 

 EDSA champions won 7 medals in this important championship, the player Saif Al-Dabal won (2) gold medals in both individual and team bowling competitions, and Abdulla Mohammad Thani won the gold medal in team bowling and bronze medal in individual bowling, and in their first participation in Bocce competition, the player Mahmoud Jarour won the gold medal in Bocce Doubles, and the player Abdullah Adel Al Nasser also got (2) silver medals in Bocce Singles and the Doubles.

The UAE receives the banner of hosting the World Congress for Down Syndrome 2020

Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhamaid, Minister of Community Development, received the banner on behalf of the UAE as the host of the 14th World Down Syndrome Congress, to be held in Dubai in mid-November 2020 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council

This came at the handover ceremony held in the Hall of the Exhibition and Convention Center in Glasgow, in the presence of the President of the Down Syndrome International, chairperson of Down's Syndrome Scotland and chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) and members of UAE delegation and heads of international delegations.

Her Excellency Hessa bint Essa Buhamaid, accompanied by Her Excellency Rawda Mohammed Juma Al Otaiba, Deputy Ambassador of the UAE in the United Kingdom, visited the UAE Pavilion at the congress exhibition area and listened to the explanation from Dr. Manal Jaroor, the chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) and the UAE delegation. Her Excellency Hessa Buhamaid expressed her admiration of the excellent organization of the UAE Pavilion and the efforts of promoting UAE as a destination for the world’s top events. 

The closing ceremony has started with a presentation by Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of EDSA and President of WDSC Dubai 2020, in which she presented the association’s story of Emirates Down Syndrome Association since its establishment in 2006, the accomplishments made and the association’s ambitious future projects, besides, inviting the delegates to visit Dubai and attend the upcoming World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020.

The ceremony included an exchange of gifts with the Scottish Down Syndrome Association, as well as a gift with the Down Syndrome International.

The congress will bring together an anticipated 1,200 delegates including people with Down syndrome, their families, researchers, and professionals, and will discuss the best practices, latest developments and researches related to people with Down syndrome 

It is worth noting that the UAE will be the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to host an event of such magnitude, the UAE’s selection was motivated by its prominent international stature and its remarkable achievements in empowering, protecting and promoting the rights of people with determination.

With a lot of joy and happiness, Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) celebrates the 48th UAE National Day

Emirates Down Syndrome Association organized a special celebration on the occasion of the UAE 48th National Day at its headquarters in Dubai, in the presence of EDSA board members, people with Down syndrome and their families, employees, volunteers, and the general public. 

The event program consisted of entertainment and recreation activities, and distributing gifts for people with down syndrome by Dubai Police People of Determination Council, an interactive drawing workshop that promotes the values of the country and belonging conducted by Mas paints, and “Happiness Dish” session conducted by the well-known volunteer Chef Rawan Sawaan with the participation of people with Down syndrome and their mothers in a fun and friendly environment. The celebration also included traditional performances, folk dances, and national songs.

With the participation of 20 Facilitators and 35 Self-advocates with Down syndrome

Emirates Down Syndrome Association concludes the second phase of the Self-Advocacy Programme

Emirates Down Syndrome Association announced the completion of the second phase of the UAE Self-advocacy program at Swissotel Al Ghurair Hotel in cooperation with the Down Syndrome International (DSI) in the United Kingdom. The programme represents one of the most important pillars of the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, which the UAE won to host for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Dr. Manal Jaroor, EDSA Chairperson, stated that the programme aims to train 20 facilitators from various disciplines related to people of determination representing government institutions and private centers from all emirates

Dr. Jaroor thanked Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel Dubai, which hosted the programme for the second time in a row and said: It was a distinguished hosting that contributed to the programme’s success, it’s a noble act to host an important programme that has a great and direct impact in improving the lives for People of Determination. 

She also extended her gratitude to all participants who showed great commitment and dedication since launching the programme in September 2019. Dr. Jaroor emphasized on the importance of establishing a well-trained self-advocacy group in UAE and provide the opportunity for the facilitators to apply all that they have learned during the programme with people of determination in general and those with Down syndrome in particular

“Highlighting the voice of people with Down syndrome and enabling them to express themselves and defend their rights, is a reflection of our wise leadership's vision to improve the lives for people of determination and ensure that they have a decent living.” Dr. Jaroor further added.

For her part, Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser, EDSA Vice-chairperson, said: the programme aims to train and qualify a group of facilitators and specialists across the United Arab Emirates, to conduct self-advocacy training sessions for people with Down syndrome and enable them to express themselves, their opinions, and track their development. The self-advocates with Down syndrome will celebrate what they have learned during the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020.  

Al Nasser added: “we would like to ensure the continuation and expansion of this programme year after year. The trained self-advocacy team will play an essential role in spreading the knowledge and share the self-advocacy concepts and principles with their colleagues, parents, and guardians of people with down syndrome in the efforts of enabling them to express themselves and enhance their self-confidence and make their own choices.

The DSI trainers have conducted assessment sessions with local self-advocacy trainers, discussed the challenges, suggested appropriate solutions, and evaluated the overall outcome achieved from the programme during the second phase, and worked alongside the local facilitator's team to set the objectives of the next phase.

With the participation of 20 facilitators, Emirates Down Syndrome Association concludes the first phase of the Self-Advocacy Programme 

The Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) has announced the completion of the first phase self- advocacy programme at Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSI) in the United Kingdom. The programme, represents one of the most important pillars of the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, which the UAE won to host for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Dr. Manal Jaroor thanked Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel Dubai for hosting the programme, and said: “We strongly believe in the private sector role in supporting our mission and help us to empower and include people of determination in the society. We are proud of our partnership with Swissôtel Al Ghurair Dubai and we are very grateful to them for supporting us in this important event and other EDSA events and activities.”

She also extended her gratitude to all participants who showed great commitment and dedication during the 1st phase of the programme, and wished the participants all the success in the upcoming phases of this programme that will be continued until November 2020. 

“The self-advocacy programme aims to train 20 facilitators from various disciplines related to people of determination representing government institutions and private centers from all emirates. As a result of this programme, we will able to form a solid core for self-advocacy in the UAE, it’s an opportunity for the facilitators to apply all that they have learned during the programme in terms of self-advocacy with people of determination in general and those with Down syndrome in particular.” Dr. Jaroor added.

“Highlighting the voice of people with Down syndrome and enabling them to express themselves and defend their rights, is a reflection of our wise leadership's vision to improve the lives for people of determination and ensure that they have a decent living.” Dr. Jaroor further added.

For her part, Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser, EDSA Vice-chairperson, mentioned that the program aims to train and qualify a group of 20 facilitators across the United Arab Emirates, to conduct self-advocacy training sessions for people with Down syndrome and enable them to express themselves, their opinions, and track their development.

Al Nasser added: “The trained self-advocacy team will spread knowledge and share the self-advocacy concepts and principles with their colleagues and parents of people with down syndrome in the efforts of enabling people with Down syndrome in particular and People of determination, in general, to express themselves and enhance their self-confidence and ability to make their own decisions.

It’s worth noting that the local self-advocacy group consists of smaller teams that work harmoniously across the different Emirates. Regular meetings and gatherings are scheduled for the whole self-advocacy group in UAE to track the progress and exchange ideas and views among the Facilitators, in addition to conducting Informative and practical training sessions for the self-advocates with Down syndrome, to help them know their rights and responsibilities, and coach them in the essential skills they need and enhance their confidence.

The DSI Self-advocacy trainers will continue to support the local team throughout the different phases of the programme to ensure the team is moving in the right direction as per objectives set. They opened up an effective communication channel to discuss the challenges, suggest appropriate solutions, evaluate the overall outcome, and provide guidance where needed. 

A great success of the 10th annual health festival for people with Down syndrome in Dubai

As part of the "UAE’s 50th-anniversary" initiatives, Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) organized in its headquarters the 10th annual health festival for people with Down syndrome and their families, in cooperation with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) represented by the Dental Services Center at Al Bada Health Center and in partnership with the Canadian Specialist Hospital, UAE Special Olympics Foundation, Zulekha Hospital in Dubai, Dr. Amina Al Amiri Clinic, Ear Care Medical Center, Arabian Home Healthcare and AsasCo for Training and Development, in the presence of EDSA board members and a large number of people with Down syndrome, their families, volunteers, and supporters.

The festival was marked by the wide participation of hospitals and medical centers from various medical specialties that serve people Down syndrome, including doctors and consultants in the fields of GP, ENT, Dermatology, Osteoporosis, Ophthalmology, Neurology, Nutrition, Podiatry, and much more.

The Festival also included dental examination for people with Down syndrome provided by a Mobile Dental Clinic from Dubai Health Authority (DHA), that performed dental screenings and check-ups, and provided a practical demonstration using dental models on the brushing technique and how to maintain a healthy mouth and teeth.

On the sidelines of the festival, AsasCo for Training and Development organized a variety of entertainment activities such as face and hand painting, painting and recycling workshops.

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) approves the UAE delegation for the World Down Syndrome Congress 2018 in Scotland

The Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) has approved the UAE delegation participating in the World Congress of Down Syndrome 2018 in Glasgow - Scotland during the period from 24th to 27th  July this year, headed by Dr. Manal Jaroor, EDSA Chairperson and President of the World Down Syndrome Congress 2020.

Dr. Manal Jaroor talked about the importance of participating in the Glasgow Congress: We are always looking forward to the betterment opportunities, and we hope that the World Down Syndrome Congress 2020 in Dubai - hosted by the UAE under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in Dubai – would be a unique and unprecedented event. 

“The Down's Syndrome Scotland team has done incredible work in the preparations and organizing such a world-class event, and it would be a great opportunity to exchange ideas and learn from the experiences they gathered” Dr. Jaroor Added

“Besides receiving the Banner for hosting the next World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, our participation also includes a presentation about Emirates Down Syndrome Association Journey since its establishment in 2006, and the progress and achievements made to spread awareness, empower and protect the rights people with Down syndrome in UAE, under the great UAE leaders’ guidance and the national policy for empowering people of determination which was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai” Dr. Jaroor Further Added

For her part, Mrs. Nawal Al-Haj Nasser, EDSA Vice-chairperson and Vice-president of WDSC Dubai 2020, expressed the importance of hosting the WDSC in Dubai 2020 and said: we at the UAE, are used to the be at the first rankings regionally and globally, we are proud to be the first country in the Middle East and North Africa to host an event of such magnitude. It will be great to see people with Down syndrome, their families, researchers, and professionals gather from around the world with one aim and focus on how to improve lives for people with Down syndrome

EDSA sports team comes back with 12 medals during in the first local championship organized by the UAE Special Olympics

The EDSA sports team achieved impressive results in the first local championship organized by the UAE Special Olympics for the season 2019/2020 in the sport of Bocce and Bowling which was held at Dubai Club of People of Determination

Dr. Manal Jaroor, the association’s chairperson, expressed her delight and pride with these results, saying: today we celebrate a new great victory of our sports team, adding yet another honor and success to their long list of achievements. We have complete trust in our sports team skills and abilities, and above all, comes there great and unbeatable enthusiasm and determination.

Dr. Jaroor also extended her gratitude to the sports team coach, Mr. Mahmoud Atwan, and praised his distinguished efforts, saying: These successes of the sports team are to a great degree attributed to Mr. Mahmoud's efforts with the team for many years of hard work and dedication.

On her part, Nawal Al-Haj Nasser, the association’s Vice-chairperson, said: this achievement is special and close to everyone's heart, it's such a great and rewarding feeling to see our members with Down syndrome are growing and able to unleash their hidden potentials. Thanks to the unlimited support of our great Leaders to the people of determination, and for making these kinds of events possible.

Mr. Mahmoud Atwan, the coach of the team, said: the performance of the players was commendable, every member of our team was fully prepared and willing to succeed and show his best abilities. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the association’s board members, for their guidance and full support, my colleagues, as well as, the athlete's parents who played an essential role in this success. 

The association’s champions won twelve medals in the championship, where the Bocce team achievements were as follows: Youssef Al-Hashemi, the gold medal for the age group (16-21), Abdalazeez Al Ali, the gold medal for the age group (8-11), Ali Al Suwaidi, the bronze medal in the singles category for the age group (16-21), Sharhan Al Marzouqi, the bronze medal in a single category for the age group (22 and above).    

The achievements of the association's bowling team were as follows: Abdulla Mohammad Thani, the gold medal in the individual bowling and the gold in the Unified Bowling Doubles, Saif Al-Dabal, the gold medal in the unified bowling doubles and silver medal in the individual bowling, Edris Mohammad Ebrahim, the silver medal in the individual bowling, Adel Othman, the bronze medal in the unified bowling, Rashed Al-Marmoum the bronze in the unified bowling

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) wins Three awards from the Asia-Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF)

The distinguished members of Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) have won 3 Excellence Awards from Asia-Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF). The awards ceremony took place during the 3rd APDSF AGM in Shangri-La Hotel Dubai, at the presence of the president of APDSF Mr. Ramachandran Narayanaswamy, EDSA chairperson Dr. Manal Jaroor, delegations, and APDSF members.

Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser, EDSA Vice-chairperson and Vice-president of the World Down Syndrome Congress (WDSC) Dubai 2020 won the APDSF Excellence Award under the category of “Outstanding effort for the cause of Down syndrome”. Mrs. Al Nasser was one of the founders of EDSA who worked hard to see EDSA growing locally and internationally. She started her volunteer journey in 2005 and invested her time and efforts with passion and dedication to develop and improve the quality of services provided for people with Down syndrome.

Mrs. Al Nasser is the mother of Abdulla, a champion with Down Syndrome who was integrated into regular schooling successfully and he is now in the 11th grade. Abdullah won several medals in the Bocce, Bowling, and Golf competitions and recently awarded 2 silver medals in Bocce Singles and the Doubles during the 9th Regional Games of Special Olympics 2018 in Abu Dhabi with a participation of 1200 athletes from 33 countries.

The “Outstanding Research in the area of Down syndrome” APDSF Excellence Award went to Professor Eman Gaad, the Dean of Faculty of Education at the British University in Dubai, EDSA founding member, and Volunteer Education Consultant.

Professor Gaad was behind many research publications over the last 20 years that are related to the development and improving the quality of lives for people with the syndrome.  She was awarded the first funded research from the government to examine the education of learners with Down syndrome back in 2001 and her research work has been used as a key guide for both government and non-government. Moreover, Professor Gad received several research-based awards for her work with people with Down Syndrome including the most to distinguish research awarded by Princess Haya back in 2012.

Last, but not least, Ms. Chaica S. Al Qassimi won the APDSF Excellence Award for the category of "Outstanding Self-advocacy- for persons with Down syndrome". A 23-year-old Emirati graduate of Sharjah English School and continued her studies in art at the International School of Arts and Sciences in Dubai. Ms. Al Qassimi is fully focused on spreading awareness on inclusion, with representative roles at top national and international organizations. She is the National Representative for people with Down Syndrome Representative at Down Syndrome International (DSI), Ambassador of Inclusion MENA at Inclusion International, Ambassador of Inclusion at Manzil Center in Sharjah, and the UAE Special Olympics Athlete & Leader.

Ms. Al Qassimi has participated in several competitions internationally and has won Medals at 2 World Karate Championships in Egypt and Spain. She also participated as a Torch Runner during the Law Enforcement Torch Run at the World Games, and gave a speech at the Opening Ceremony of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019

In collaboration with the Down Syndrome International, Emirates Down Syndrome Association launched the Self- Advocacy Programme in UAE

Emirates Down Syndrome Association has announced the launch of its Self- Advocacy Programme at Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSI) in the UK.

Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson, said: “This Programme, represents one of the most important pillars of the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, which the UAE won to host for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Dr. Jaroor thanked the Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel, which hosts the programme, and praised the role of the private sector and their contribution in improving the services provided for People of Determination. She added that the self-advocacy programme aims to empower and enable People with Down Syndrome to express themselves and defend their rights in particular and People of Determination in general. People with Down syndrome have a voice that is insufficiently heard, and self-advocacy aims to highlight that voice.

Dr. Jaroor highlighted that the programme consists of several phases, starting with an intensive four-day training programme to qualify a group of People of Determination specialties in self-advocacy. The training is conducted by certified trainers from the Down Syndrome International (DSI) in the United Kingdom. The training programme includes the basic principles and concepts of the advocacy group, and workshops to develop the trainer’s practical skills and enable them to manage a self-advocacy group.

She added: “The group of People of Determination specialties has been selected and formed from people of Determination government and private centers in all Emirates. Post the four-day intensive training, the trained facilitators will meet every two weeks for a period of 10 months. During the meetings, knowledge and experience regarding self-advocacy are exchanged, engaging in practical advocacy activities to develop practical skills for facilitates/trainers to train people with Down syndrome who will participate actively in the World Congress of Down Syndrome Dubai 2020.

DSI self-advocacy trainers will monitor and evaluate the performance of local self-advocacy trainers, discuss difficulties, develop appropriate solutions, and evaluating the overall outcome.

Dr. Jaroor praised the cooperation from all parties that have nominated trainers according to the required criteria and their commitment to providing direct training to people with Down syndrome to achieve the desired objectives of the programme.

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) wins the 13th Conservation Award 2019

Under the slogan “‘Together for a Sustainable Future”, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Supreme Council of Energy in Dubai, and HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), honored Emirates Down Syndrome Association with the 13th Conservation Award 2019 under the category of “Distinguished Educational Institution for People of Determination in Conservation” organized by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The Conservation Award celebrates educational institutions that apply best practices in rationalizing electricity and water consumption as well as the individual achievements in the educational sector.

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al-Tayer thanked the association and the educational institutions that participated in the Conservation Award and also praised the role of every individual within these institutions such as faculty members, staff, teachers, and students who contributed to achieving these results.

For her part, Dr. Manal Jaroor, EDSA Chairperson, said: We are proud to win the Conservation Award for this year, with 459 government and private schools taking part, and involving 27,732 students. The award represents a clear example of fruitful and constructive cooperation with a common vision to protect the environment and conserve natural resources which will contribute to achieving sustainable development in our beloved country. As His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai once said, “Working as a team, everybody takes part in building the UAE.”

Dr. Jaroor added “Rationalizing electricity and water consumption is one of the Emirates Down Syndrome Association's core values and top priorities. As part of our yearly calendar program, we continue to implement projects and initiatives using various tools and methods to spread awareness and promote environmentally friendly habits among our employees, beneficiaries, and visitors.” 

The 3rd General Assembly Meeting of Asia-Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF) was concluded in Dubai 

Emirates Down Syndrome Association, hosted the Asia-Pacific Down Syndrome Federation (APDSF) 3rd General Assembly Meeting at the Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai, from the period 7th to 8th of December 2019, with the participation of representatives from 13 member countries.

Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) welcomed the delegations to Dubai and expressed her admiration to the President of the Federation, Mr. Ramachandran Narayanaswamy, for the outstanding efforts made by the Federation to spread awareness, empower and protect the rights for people with Down syndrome within the member countries and worldwide.

The country representatives presented their country report covering the latest developments and achievements made for people with down syndrome, as well as the national policies and legislations that applied in each respective country, after which a discussion took place, and the participants exchanged views and ideas on the best practices within the areas of healthcare, education, and inclusion of people with Down Syndrome.

The mechanism of cooperation was also discussed among the members, in addition to different initiatives, plans and how to effectively exchange the information with neighboring countries that are not part of the Federation.

The AGM culminated with a cultural event about UAE at Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding Al Bastakiya District, Dubai. The event consisted of Ayala performance, a tour at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and cultural presentation followed by a traditional dinner. 

It is worth noting that the United Arab Emirates is the first Arab country to join the Federation and its membership was announced during the APDSF AGM at Colombo in December 2018.

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) congratulates Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser on winning the 2019 World Down Syndrome Award 

Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) congratulates Mrs. Nawal Al Nasser on winning the 2019 World Down Syndrome Award.

The UK-based Down Syndrome International (DSi) announced that Mrs. Nawal Al Haj Nasser Abdullah Al Nasser (Vice-chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association) is the winner of the 2019 World Down Syndrome Day award, under the category of individuals whose efforts have had a great impact on improving the quality of life for people with Down syndrome.

The award will be presented by Mrs. Vanessa Dos Santos, President of Down Syndrome International (DSi), during the 14th World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020

With the participation of 20 trainees, Emirates Down Syndrome Association concludes the first phase of the Self-Advocacy Programme

The Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) has announced the completion of the first phase Self-Advocacy Programme at Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel in collaboration with Down Syndrome International (DSI) in the United Kingdom. The programme, represents one of the most important pillars of the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020, which the UAE won to host for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council.

Dr. Manal Jaroor, EDSA Chairperson, stated that the programme aimed to train 20 trainers from various disciplines related to people of determination representing government institutions and private centers in from all emirates.

Dr. Jaroor thanked the Swissôtel Al Ghurair Hotel, which hosted the programme, and said: The distinguished hosting and positive environment led to the success of the programme that contributes to improvement of the services provided for People of Determination.

Dr. Jaroor also praised all the participants who showed great commitment and dedication to achieve the programme objectives, especially that this programme will be continues until November 2020 and will form a solid core for self-advocacy of people with Down syndrome, and will benefit all participants in the applying all what they have learned during the programme in terms of self-advocacy for people of determination in general and those with Down syndrome in particular.

She added: Highlighting the voice of people with Down syndrome and enable them to express themselves and their needs and defend their rights, reflects the high level of care our beloved country dedicate for People of Determination.

For her part, Ms. Nawal Al Nasser, EDSA Vice Chairperson, mentioned that the program aims to train and qualify a group of People of Determination specialties in self-advocacy in the United Arab Emirates, to conduct self-advocacy training session for people with Down syndrome and enable them to express themselves, their opinions, and track their development until November 2020.

Al Nasser added: “The trained self-advocacy team will spread knowledge and share the self-advocacy concepts and principles with their colleagues and parents to enable people with Down syndrome in particular and People of determination in general to express themselves and enhance their self-confidence and ability to take their own decisions.

The accredited trainers by the Down Syndrome International (DSI) who conducted the programme praised the level of knowledge of the trainees, and the high level of People of determination rights in UAE.

Advocacy teams have been formed to establish a self-advocacy group with Down syndrome. There are ongoing meetings at which knowledge and experience are exchanged to acquire and develop practical skills for trainers with Down Syndrome who will participate actively in the World Down Syndrome Congress Dubai 2020.

DSI self-advocacy trainers will monitor and evaluate the performance of local self-advocacy trainers, discuss difficulties, develop appropriate solutions, and evaluating the overall outcome.

In recognition of its outstanding achievements, Emirates Down Syndrome Association (EDSA) won the 12th Khalifa Award for Education 2019, for the category of people of determination institutions and centers.

The Award Ceremony for the winners was held at the Emirates Palace Hotel, Abu Dhabi, Under the slogan, ¡®Because You Deserve Honor, Distinguish Yourself'

His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Khalifa Educational Award handed the award to Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance, Sheikhs and Excellence, and the winners and the institution's representatives.

EDSA chairperson, Dr. Manal Jaroor highlighted the importance of this award in promoting the best practices among the workers in the educational field.

She added: This award is a medal on our chest as it carries the name of our beloved president his Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, May Allah bless him and protect him, and it is a reflection of his highness's support for the education sector, locally and in the Arab region for all categories including people of determination. Education is the foundation for any development or progress, and building a strong nation that is equipped with science and knowledge.

Dubai: Starting on Tuesday, October 1st, the globe and UAE will celebrate the awareness Month of Down Syndrome, Month of October, through a campaign "Together to Unlocking Hidden Potentials"

Dr. Manal Jaroor, Chairperson of Emirates Down Syndrome Association, said: in October every year, Down Syndrome organizations and associations around the world celebrate the Down Syndrome Awareness Month. it's an opportunity to celebrate the abilities and achievements of people with Down Syndrome, and a greater opportunity to intensify awareness efforts to promote the acceptance, empowerment, and inclusion of people with Down syndrome, emphasizing the role of media and influencers in the mass communication platforms to achieve this objective.

She praised the unlimited support provided by the wise leadership represented by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

"UAE is witnessing great care for people with Down syndrome through the services provided to them and the enactment of legislation and laws, especially the national policy that was enactment to enable people with Determination in several aspects such as health, rehabilitation, education, vocational rehabilitation, employment, accessibility, social protection and family empowerment, which aims to enhance the role of the UAE community, institutions and individuals in the rehabilitation, empowerment and integration of People with Determination", Dr. Jaroor added.