Social Development Ministry, Ford Foundation Discuss Cooperation

Amman, Sept. 3 (Petra) -- Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa and Ford Foundation President Heather Gerken discussed Thursday expanding cooperation on social protection, disability inclusion, civil society, and the government's social development priorities.

Bani Mustafa said cooperation could support priority initiatives under Jordan's 2025-2033 National Social Protection Strategy, the 2022-2033 Economic Modernisation Vision, and related national plans.

She reviewed ministry programs aimed at empowering persons with disabilities, developing vocational and technical training linked to labor market needs, and expanding partnerships with the private sector to provide inclusive and sustainable employment opportunities.

Bani Mustafa also outlined work with the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to develop an institutional seal for disability-friendly organizations, aimed at encouraging accessibility, inclusion, and inclusive workplaces and services.

She highlighted the ministry's gradual transition from institutional care toward alternative accommodation, family-based care, and inclusive community services. The government-run Al-Amal Center in Russeifa has been converted from a residential care facility into an inclusive day-service centre as part of a plan to advance this model by 2027.

The ministry also plans to expand family integration, inclusive day centers, and fixed and mobile early-intervention units for persons with disabilities.

On digital transformation, Bani Mustafa said the ministry is developing systems including the Jordan Social Registry, a social early-warning system, the "Aoun" donations platform, a unified financing window, and orphan sponsorship services, alongside greater electronic oversight of residential care facilities and automation of services.

She also discussed continued cooperation with the Ford Foundation on classifying civil society associations and the possibility of supporting the development of the "Takamol" platform to improve data management and integration with relevant government systems.

Gerken reaffirmed the Ford Foundation's interest in continued cooperation on social protection, civil society empowerment, inclusion, and participation.

The two sides agreed to continue consultations on proposed areas of cooperation and priorities for the next phase.

//Petra// AO

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