A Compassionate Roadmap: Minister Hayar Unveils Initiatives to Support the Elderly, Disabled, and Abandoned Children

In a comprehensive address to Parliament, Aawatif Hayar, the Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration, and Family, unveiled her ministry's strategic roadmap to tackle the pressing challenges faced by the elderly, disabled individuals, and abandoned children. Her response directly addressed deputies' inquiries about obstacles hindering improvements in conditions for persons with disabilities, especially in education, access to employment opportunities, and obtaining disability certificates.

With a firm commitment to fostering an inclusive society, Minister Hayar highlighted the establishment of 1,370 training and educational centers, including 428 in rural areas, to serve 136,000 individuals, of whom 78% are women. Recognizing the crucial role of care-based professions, she emphasized the ministry's efforts to strengthen the "care economy" and enhance the workforce dedicated to social care services.

Expanding on government initiatives, Hayar detailed collaborative efforts to ensure universal access to nurseries and to establish dedicated elderly care centers in rural regions, emphasizing a holistic, family-centric approach.

Addressing the challenges faced by abandoned children, the minister outlined the ministry's collaboration with the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) to provide vocational training opportunities for these vulnerable individuals upon reaching adulthood. This comprehensive support system aims to equip them with essential skills and resources for navigating adulthood.

Regarding concerns about the elderly, Hayar announced with pride the opening of 50 day-care centers in 2023, underscoring the government's commitment to their well-being. Additionally, the ministry supports approximately 120 associations dedicated to serving the needs of the elderly community.

In a significant update, the minister revealed that a preliminary report on the implementation of the Beijing Program would soon be presented to Parliament, marking a crucial step toward its international presentation in March. This collaborative effort aims to enrich the report with collective insights and expertise, paving the way for a comprehensive approach to addressing multifaceted challenges.

Throughout her address, the minister's steadfast dedication to uplifting vulnerable segments of society resonated with compassion and commitment. Through this comprehensive roadmap, the government aims to foster inclusivity, empowering the elderly, disabled individuals, and abandoned children to lead dignified lives and contribute to national progress.