Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the new buildings of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in the Barashi area. The inauguration marks a significant milestone as SCHS approaches its 50th year of providing specialised services.
According to Emirates News Agency, the new facilities cover an area of 100,000 square meters and represent the first phase of the development, focusing on creating an inclusive educational and rehabilitative environment. His Highness praised the efforts of Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, for her foundational role in the city's development and the city's high service standards.
The Ruler of Sharjah emphasized the need for expansion to accommodate the increasing demand for the city's services, highlighting the importance of including employee housing to ensure proximity to the city. He directed the allocation of adjacent land to SCHS for future development, aiming to elevate the city to a global standard in disability services.
The new buildings include the Sharjah Autism Centre, Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, and the administrative building, serving 3,000 individuals. The facilities incorporate innovative, research-based initiatives and adhere to global standards to offer an accessible environment, with the Sharjah Autism Centre alone providing services for 120 students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan also visited Al Wafa School, which serves 352 students with intellectual disabilities, and the new administrative building. He highlighted the importance of continued support from government entities to enhance the city's infrastructure and environment.
The inauguration ceremony also recognized a generous AED44.4 million donation from The Big Heart Foundation for constructing a treatment centre in the second phase of development, which will accommodate 2,800 beneficiaries. The second phase includes an Early Intervention Centre, Al Amal School for the Deaf, the Masarat Centre for Development and Empowerment, and Independent Living Units for adults with disabilities.
Sheikha Jameela expressed gratitude for the continuous support from His Highness and Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, acknowledging that the new buildings are a milestone for SCHS and the UAE. Since its founding in 1979, SCHS has grown to include 13 specialised centres and three branches, maintaining a pioneering reputation in advocating for individuals with disabilities.
Accompanying the Ruler on the tour were Sheikha Jameela, Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and several senior officials, underscoring the collaborative efforts in advancing SCHS's mission to support and empower individuals with disabilities.