Doha: The panel discussion of the "National Development Forum: Social Development Pillar," organized by the National Planning Council (NPC) under the theme "Sustaining Prosperity in Qatari Society," discussed on Sunday the main themes of the pillar of social development, including supporting family cohesion, safeguarding cultural identity, promoting social integration and welfare, improving quality of life, in addition to the role of cultural and social tourism as a major tributary of national progress. The panel discussion was attended by HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani, HE Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud, and HE Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar Saad bin Ali Al Kharji.
According to Qatar News Agency, the session emphasized that the progress witnessed by the State of Qatar, which falls within the framework of the Third National Development Strategy, is not measured only by economic growth indicators but is also reflected in the strength of the state's social fabric. It also highlighted the importance of expanding family support programs, promoting social integration, improving health and well-being outcomes, and consolidating cultural participation to build a balanced society.
HE Secretary-General of the National Planning Council Dr. Abdulaziz bin Nasser bin Mubarak Al Khalifa stated that nearly two decades ago, the foundation of Qatar National Vision 2030 was laid. The Vision aims to transform Qatar into an advanced nation capable of achieving sustainable development, ensuring the well-being of its citizens, and enhancing their quality of life. Qatar National Vision 2030 places family at the cornerstone of society and as the starting point of development across all fronts. It is evident how deeply HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani prioritizes family as the most essential building block of society and the foundation of its development.
HE Minister of Social Development and Family Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi addressed the key efforts undertaken by the ministry within its strategy "From Care to Empowerment," which is concerned with improving the quality of life for all citizens and residents through the development of social policies and programs to ensure an inclusive and empowering society for the most vulnerable groups.
She pointed to the issuance of the new law on the rights of persons with disabilities, which ensures their access to fair educational, health, and employment services, and enhances access to the physical and technological environment. She also highlighted the pivotal role played by the Mada Center in supporting digital inclusion for all, including persons with disabilities and the elderly.
Efforts directed toward senior citizens were also addressed through the launch of the Ehsan Center strategy, which focuses on integrating them into the development process through programs and initiatives that contribute to enhancing their active participation. This includes expanding the network of social clubs and opening the Senior Citizens Council in Katara, reflecting Qatar's interest in raising the quality of life for this group.
The housing and social security file is a priority being followed up on under the direct supervision of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, with efforts reaching advanced stages aimed at strengthening the social protection system and addressing the current challenges in legislation and services provided to the most vulnerable groups.
There is an expansion of the economic empowerment program for productive families and a notable development in financial awareness programs directed at families and youth, in addition to the vital role played by the Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM) in improving the quality of life of individuals and families through financing quality community programs and initiatives.