ZHO conference focuses on advances in autism research
Under the patronage of Sheikh Khalid Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO), the 3rd International Conference on Advances in Autism Research officially began on Saturday at the Abu Dhabi Energy Centre.
Held under the theme 'Together for Inclusion: A Global Mission to Understand Autism,' the conference is jointly organised by the ZHO, ADNOC, Lotus Holistic Centre - Abu Dhabi, and Fatima College of Health Sciences, and will run until April 22.
The conference welcomes broad international participation from experts in psychiatry, neuroscience, special education, and artificial intelligence, representing prestigious universities and research institutions around the world, including UAE University, King Saud University, the UK's National Health Service (NHS), as well as academic institutions from the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Arab world.
Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of ZHO, affirmed that the conference is not merely a platform to present research during Autism Awareness Month, but rather a bridge for international cooperation to explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionise accurate diagnosis of autism causes through analysis of genetic data and neuroimaging, and the development of personalised intervention programmes based on individual needs.
It offers practical solutions to improve quality of life and enhance community inclusion.
In his opening speech, Al Humaidan emphasised that holding the conference during the 'Year of the Community 2025' confirms the UAE's commitment to leading scientific and humanitarian efforts to empower people of determination, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder. This aligns with the nation's vision of building a cohesive society that promotes human values and innovation.
Al Humaidan further explained that technological innovation is a core pillar in empowering people of determination.
Through this conference, the goal is to stimulate research that integrates AI in developing diagnostic and therapeutic tools, strengthen partnerships with leading specialised centres, and empower families through workshops that utilize smart applications for family and psychological guidance.
He concluded by saying: 'Today, we stand before a historic opportunity to transform challenges into opportunities, for Abu Dhabi to become a global beacon in autism empowerment, and to continue its pioneering role in leveraging AI for the service of humanity.
'Let us work together to translate the outcomes of this conference into policies and applications that improve the lives of thousands of people with autism around the world.'
For his part, Dr Omar Al Hammadi, Deputy Vice President of Medical Services and Quality of Life at ADNOC, delivered remarks on behalf of Dr Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Senior Vice President of Medical Services and Quality of Life at ADNOC.
He stated: 'Today's conference reflects the spirit of cooperation, innovation, and inclusion - values essential to building a sustainable and thriving society.'
He added that ADNOC's participation as a strategic partner reflects its commitment to the national vision of empowering, valuing, and integrating people of determination into all spheres of life.
Dr Afaf Al Ansari, professor and member of the Saudi Autism Committee, and Chair of the Conference's Scientific Committee, stated: 'This conference is of significant importance as it aims to raise awareness about evidence-based treatments and strategies, present the latest research in autism, and highlight interventions proven effective, such as behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, and early intervention among other scientifically recognised approaches.'
She added that the conference provides a platform to present the latest research, studies, and international experiences, while encouraging the exchange of knowledge between specialists and parents. This fosters evidence-based practices rooted in a deep understanding of the needs of children and families, helping to improve quality of life.
The conference features more than 20 interactive sessions, workshops, and panel discussions with the participation of over 100 experts from around the world.
WAM
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
21 hours ago
- Sharjah 24
ZHO raises voices of People of Determination from UN platform
The Organisation reaffirmed its leadership in bringing the UAE's experience in empowering and integrating People of Determination to global forums The Organisation reaffirmed its leadership in bringing the UAE's experience in empowering and integrating People of Determination to global forums, through its active participation in the official side event at the 18th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP18), held at the United Nations headquarters in New York under the theme: "Empowering Inclusive Development through Disability-Inclusive Action and Effective Partnerships." During the session, organised by the ZHO in collaboration with the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations and Rehabilitation International, a distinguished group of decision-makers, experts, and activists from around the world gathered. The Organisation delivered a global call to action for joint work, continued collaboration, transcending borders, and fostering inclusion and empowerment for People of Determination in every aspect. It also conveyed a clear message to the world: empowerment only happens through partnership, and the future cannot be truly inclusive unless all people, in all their diversity, are at the centre of policies and programmes. ZHO announced the launch of the International Journal of Disability and Rehabilitation Studies During the session, the ZHO announced the launch of the International Journal of Disability and Rehabilitation Studies, a specialised research platform that enhances the scientific impact to serve People of Determination globally. Established in partnership with Rehabilitation International, the journal aims to promote impactful scientific research that makes a difference in the lives of People of Determination worldwide. In his recorded opening remarks, Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of the Zayed Higher Organisation and Vice President of Rehabilitation International for the MENA Region, emphasised the importance of collective action to enhance inclusion across borders from the UAE to the world. He stated, 'Our participation in this event reflects the UAE's unwavering commitment to making inclusion and integration a sustainable approach that guarantees equal opportunities for People of Determination to participate, excel, and lead. At the ZHO, we believe that inclusion is not optional, it is essential to build a more just and sustainable future. Through this session, we have shared successful human experiences, based on a national vision of empowerment, with countries around the world. We are not here to promote achievement, but to present a practical model that reflects the vision of our wise leadership for an inclusive society that provides opportunities and supports human diversity.' He added, 'We do not merely provide care and rehabilitation services, but we are building an empowerment ecosystem that believes every individual, regardless of their abilities, has a role in the development process. This is not just a slogan, but a national commitment reinforced by the UAE's policies and implemented by the ZHO in all its initiatives.' Al Humaidan also addressed the participants from different countries: 'People of Determination are not just a topic for discussion at conferences—they are partners in policymaking and solutions. This is a firm belief we hold, embodied in our partnerships with both the public and private sectors, and with international organisations.' Success Stories and Inclusive Solutions In a paper titled 'Success Stories and Inclusive Solutions' presented by Abdullah Al Kamali, Executive Director of the People of Determination Sector at the Organisation, he highlighted the Organisation's major achievements in professional empowerment. He emphasised that People of Determination have tremendous potential, provided the community also believes in them. Al Kamali said, 'Inclusion does not stop at providing services, it is a belief in human potential and the right to dignity and participation.' He noted that the UAE is driven by a deep conviction in the abilities of People of Determination. The Organisation developed the first national vocational qualification specifically for them, creating real opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. This translates inclusion into an economy of innovation and calls for investing in people and building a fairer, more participatory world. Hamad Hazza Al Darmaki, a coach at Al Ain Club for People of Determination, shared his personal journey: 'I returned from my studies in the US not only with a degree but with a mission. I founded the first football team for the Deaf in the UAE and the first official association for them. I also contributed to developing the Emirati Sign Language Dictionary in cooperation with the Zayed Higher Organisation and the UAE Deaf Association, to preserve our visual language and cultural identity.' He added, 'True empowerment is when we are the ones writing the chapters of change. My participation in the committee to host the 20th World Federation of the Deaf Congress in 2027 in Abu Dhabi was a source of national pride. Today, I continue as a coach at Al Ain Club for People of Determination, nurturing new talents and advocating for empowerment through sports and education.' Mira Al Shamsi, a genomic analyst at the Organisation and Vice Chair of the Health Committee at Rehabilitation International, stated: 'Comprehensive and inclusive health is not an additional service, it is a fundamental human right that must be ensured for all, especially persons with disabilities.' She emphasised the need to redesign health systems to be built with and for persons with disabilities, based on the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and equal opportunity enshrined in the Convention. She noted that the Zayed Higher Organisation applies a data-driven, equity-based approach, where participation in the Emirati Genome Programme is not limited to diagnosis, but also aims to design tailored health and educational interventions that meet individual needs and consider genetic diversity and social context. She underscored that building inclusive health systems requires cross-sector partnerships and real empowerment of persons with disabilities as rights-holders, not merely service recipients. She concluded, 'The UAE is committed to continuing to work in line with the principles of the CRPD to ensure fair, accessible, and human rights-based health for all.' Maryam Al Qubaisi, activist and MS Ambassador, concluded, 'I was diagnosed with the disease at 17, and it changed my dreams, but I chose to be the voice of those who aren't heard. The real barriers are not in the body but in thoughts and society.' She spoke about her 'Inclusive Design for Inclusion' initiative, affirming, 'True innovation begins when we design technology with, not for, People of Determination. Technology should not just race ahead, it must include everyone.'
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Sharjah 24
Arab Planetarium Society conducts workshops at SAASST
Throughout the year, the Arab Planetarium Society organises a wide range of specialized lectures, workshops, forums, training programs, and courses in the field of planetarium development, delivered by a distinguished group of Arab experts. The Society is committed to strengthening its partnerships with various institutions across the Arab region and enhancing its collaboration with the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences to achieve its mission of spreading astronomical knowledge. In this context, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Director of SAASST, emphasised that the Arab Planetarium Society plays a vital role in promoting education in astronomy and space sciences in the Arab world. The Society effectively bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, supports new generations of students and researchers, and contributes to the development of academic institutions in this field. Marwan Shwaiki, President of the Society, noted that the organization was established in 2020 under the patronage of Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, President of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences. He highlighted the Society's ongoing efforts to build collaborative ties with planetariums across Arab countries and to provide scientific and technical support to institutions involved in astronomy and space sciences. Shwaiki also underscored the importance of raising public awareness about the value of planetariums as educational tools.
Dubai Eye
3 days ago
- Dubai Eye
UAE to issue unified IDs for People of Determination
The UAE has announced an initiative that aims to integrate local and federal standards of diagnosis and identification for People of Determination that contribute to building an inclusive and supportive environment The issuance of a single unified card will be recognised at both federal and local levels and will facilitate access to services by January 2026. Outlined by the Ministry of Family and Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, the initiative commits to align legislations and regulations, and to fully implement the Unified National Disability Classification. The move aims to enhance the protection of rights for People of Determination, monitor employment stability and conduct benchmarking of working hours. Innovative technological solutions such as data-sharing networks and the expansion of smart application use will be implemented. The cooperation also aims to develop curricula and facilities in care and rehabilitation centres, and to raise public awareness of issues through joint campaigns and activities The partnership reflects the government's ongoing commitment to enhancing the role of People of Determination in the UAE community, highlighted Hessa Abdulrahman Tahlak, Assistant Undersecretary for the Development Sector at the Ministry of Family, emphasised that Abdullah Al Humaidan, Secretary-General of Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, highlighted the adoption of technology and digital integration to raise service efficiency and ensure full inclusion of People of Determination. "We believe that creating an inclusive environment... starts with effective institutional cooperation. This partnership represents an integrated model that seeks to unify efforts and deliver services that meet the aspirations of People of Determination throughout the country," he said.
