Abu dhabi: The Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi has announced the launch of the fifth cohort of its Capacity Building Programme, an accredited academic programme designed to develop and empower social care professionals across the emirate.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme, now in its fifth cycle, underscores DCD's ongoing commitment to strengthening the capabilities and readiness of the social care workforce. It aims to support the development of a more regulated, professional, and high-quality social care sector in Abu Dhabi.
Delivered over four months, the Capacity Building Programme equips social care professionals with the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to advance their professional practice and career pathways. It also aims to enhance the social care services delivered to the community, aligning with the standards adopted across the emirate.
Registration for the programme began in May 2026, with introductory workshops for prospective candidates held throughout May and June. Applications will remain open until August, ahead of the academic programme's launch in September 2026.
Mahasen Al Hosani, Director of the Social Standards Department at the Department of Community Development, stated that the Capacity Building Programme is crucial for the qualification, development, and upskilling of professionals in the social care sector. It provides a structured and accredited academic pathway for professionals to enhance their skills and competencies according to the standards adopted in the emirate.
Al Hosani emphasized that the launch of the fifth cohort continues the department's efforts to develop an integrated professional ecosystem that enhances service quality, strengthens community trust, and supports the advancement of the social care sector.
The Department of Community Development reiterated that the Capacity Building Programme is pivotal for the development of the social care sector and an essential component of the social licensing and control framework. It ensures the readiness of social care professionals and contributes to the responsible delivery of services that meet the needs of individuals, families, and the wider community.