His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, praised the efforts of those managing the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) and its distinguished and specialised level of service as it approaches its 50th year. His Highness commended Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, for her great effort in founding the city after studying and specialising in this field in the United States.
This came during the inauguration of the new buildings of SCHS by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah ,on Monday, in the Barashi area. The new buildings mark the first phase of the city, covering an area of 100,000 square metres, and embody the concept of a cohesive community within an integrated complex that offers an inclusive educational and rehabilitative environment based on the best international practices.
His Highness unveiled the commemorative plaque marking the official opening of the new buildings, which include the Sharjah Autism Centre, Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, and the administrative building. The facilities will serve 3,000 individuals, including 1,287 daily service recipients and 1,159 treatment centre beneficiaries. The new buildings rely on innovative initiatives grounded in scientific research, adhere to the latest global practices, are environmentally friendly, technologically advanced, and meet universal design standards to offer an inclusive and accessible environment.
His Highness toured the Sharjah Autism Centre, which offers specialised services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) based on the latest practices, with a capacity of 120 students across 4,934 square metres. His Highness observed the skills and efforts of the teaching staff, interacted with the students, and witnessed practical applications of lessons in specialised classrooms such as arts, music, life skills, the gym, and the library.
His Highness then visited Al Wafa School for Capacity Development, which accommodates 352 students with intellectual disabilities, offering specialised programmes and services following global best practices. He toured the school, visiting classrooms, physical therapy and occupational therapy rooms, and severe disabilities units, noting the attractive and inclusive learning environment.
His Highness also visited the city’s new administrative building, which houses administrative offices, meeting rooms, and multipurpose halls. He posed for a commemorative photo with the city’s staff. The new buildings were designed to meet the deep and noble needs of humanitarian services, while also strategically preparing for future development with a foundation in scientific research and best engineering and operational practices in education, rehabilitation, and support services.
Since its founding in 1979, SCHS has been committed to offering integrated services by expanding facilities and opening new branches, now comprising 13 specialised centres and three branches in Khorfakkan, Al Dhaid, and Kalba. The city continues to deliver modern and advanced services with a comprehensive infrastructure that ensures smooth operations and high-quality services.
Thanks to the patronage and support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, SCHS has established a pioneering reputation locally, regionally, and internationally, achieving its vision of being a leading institution in advocating for and empowering individuals with disabilities in the UAE, the Arab world, and globally.
Please click here to read His Highness' statement on this occasion.