Staff
An inclusive initiative launched by ADEK offers students from Al Karamah Training Institute (AKTI) the chance to explore professional opportunities with leading industry partners in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Dec 5, 2024: Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has launched an inclusive initiative, offering students from Al Karamah Training Institute (AKTI) the chance to explore professional opportunities with leading industry partners in Abu Dhabi. AKTI provides specialist vocational training for people of determination with autism.
The initiative aligns with ADEK’s Inclusion Strategy for Students of Determination and the wider Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination.
Through trial work placements, the initiative aims to empower students of determination by offering them pathways to independent living and future employment opportunities. ADEK has partnered with industry leaders such as the Department of Culture and Tourism (Cultural Foundation), Burjeel Holdings, PureHealth, Al Fahim Holding, RFLCT Creative Arts Centers, Rolling Wheels Entertainment and Elysian Flowers Boutique to create tailored placements for 23 Emirati students of determination, representing 30% of the total student body at AKTI.
These placements range from box office management and customer service to financial and administrative data handling, providing valuable skills development and work experience.
To ensure a supportive transition into these roles, ADEK has also implemented comprehensive training and development programmes for industry partners, equipping them with the tools necessary to support and integrate the students effectively.
Sara Awadh Musallam, Chairman of ADEK says, “Providing our students with opportunities to explore different career pathways is an investment in our society’s future. We remain committed to implementing key initiatives that foster an inclusive education system where every student can succeed beyond the classroom. By offering our students pathways to gain valuable experience and build their skills, we are shaping a more resilient and compassionate community that thrives on diversity.”
Students joining the initiative are assessed based on their workforce readiness and performance during their placements. This assessment is used to develop personalised career paths, highlighting their strengths and identifying areas for further growth.
Following on-the-job evaluations, students may pursue additional training, mentorship opportunities and other short-term roles, or be placed in long-term roles that align with their skills and aspirations, ensuring a sustainable future transition into the workforce.
A thorough process was used to match students to suitable short-term roles, including detailed student profiling, specialist observations, tailored upskilling programmes and close collaboration with industry partners, to ensure that both students and companies benefit from the experience.
