Experts call for partnerships to boost social services

By Maria Weldali - Sep 19,2024 - Last updated at Sep 19,2024

AMMAN — Sustainable partnerships and innovation are key pillars in optimising the performance of social services, according to experts.

The remarks came at a panel discussion which was held on Tuesday, during the launch of an Agence Française de Développement (AFD)-funded project

“The Gender Equality and Social Cohesion” which is focused on the improvement of gender equality and social cohesion in the Kingdom.

The project, implemented by Expertise France in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development, is also aimed to develop the role of Local Community Development Centres (LCDCs) .

The discussion touched on the pivotal role social development centres play in fostering social cohesion and uplifting local communities, in addition to highlighting the concept of social innovation which addresses pressing social challenges in a more efficient and sustainable way.

Speaking during the panel discussion, Head of the Women Empowerment Unit at the MoSD Buthaina Yassin, pointed that “there are 66 social development centres across the Kingdom,” while detailing the ways the tasks of social development

centers align closely with the objectives of the Ministry of Social Development. Whereas both aim to promote social welfare and improve the quality of life for all members of society.

Adding that the presence of these centres enables the development of new solutions that can respond to evolving needs, such as gender equality, inclusion, and economic empowerment.

Further, she said that introducing new models of service delivery and innovation can enhance the efficiency, accessibility.

On the same ground, Director of the Independent Living Directorate at the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Rasha Adwan highlighted that “the idea of social innovation positively impacts all members of society in particular persons with disability,” noting that social innovation brings about enhanced accessibility, tailored solutions, and increased awareness.

Further, one of the key takeaways from the panel discussion was the key role of civil society organisations, and the need to evaluate current partnerships in order to assess whether or not they achieve their intended goals, and to identify strengths and weaknesses.

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