King Abdulaziz University (KAU) in Jeddah and "Qaderoon" Business Disability Network signed an agreement aimed at raising awareness and offering programs that can change the stereotype about persons with disabilities to enable them to perform their productive role in the community. The accord also entails the development of programs and services for students with disabilities and finding job opportunities for them when they graduate. Khalid Sindi, Qaderoon Executive Manager, and Dr. Abdel Moneim Al-Hayani, Dean of Student Affairs, King Abdulaziz University, signed the agreement. Commenting on the agreement, Sindi said both Qaderoon and KAU are aiming to enable persons with disabilities and achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 that states "We will enable our people with disabilities to get the job opportunities and education that provide them with independence, inclusion, and active participation in the community. We will also provide them with the tools that help them become successful." Sindi explained that through the University›s platform, "Qaderoon" will work to provide programs which are focused on several topics, including working with persons with disabilities, and developing the components of supportive work environments for persons with disabilities. Sindi gave the assurance that "Qaderoon" Network will open the way for graduates with disabilities to find employment with the members of the network, leaders of the private sector in the Kingdom. The organization›s work plan includes awareness campaigns and exhibitions for employment as well as other initiatives that will support the objectives of the MOU. For his part, Dr. Al-Hayani said: The exchange of information on training opportunities and job vacancies available from Qaderoon Network, combined with the work and training researchers from persons with disabilities in the university will provide numerous opportunities for young people. Since the launch of the Kingdom›s Vision 2030, all sectors seek to provide these opportunities. The education sector has commenced creating suitable learning environments and raise the quality of education output. Moreover, King Abdulaziz University seeks to develop community partnerships, promote skills and capabilities of students for supporting the Vision 2030 through cooperation with the private sector. This will raise the efficiency of opportunities offered and advance the requirements needed in the labor market." Besides, "the University will never hesitate to sign any agreements that will ensure the types of effective partnerships the state is keen to provide. In doing so, it will ensure that the best services are delivered in the education affairs sector, as well as others," Dr. Al-Hayani averred. — SG
