AUS, UNDP partner on disability and climate resilience

The initiative was formalised on the sidelines of the “Europe Walk for Climate Change in Brussels: Leaving No One Behind,” held on June 12, with a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Dr. Mohamed El-Tarhuni, AUS Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost, and Dr. Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States at UNDP.

Bridging innovation, accessibility, and climate resilience

Dr. El-Tarhuni emphasized that the partnership signifies a strategic step toward building inclusive and sustainable futures. “By combining AUS’ research and educational capacity with UNDP’s global development expertise, we aim to drive innovation at the intersection of climate resilience, accessibility, and policy—advancing real solutions that leave no one behind,” he said.

Promoting disability-inclusive climate response

Highlighting the UN’s commitment, Al Dardari stressed that disability-inclusive development remains central to UNDP's agenda. “Persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, yet there is a significant research gap on how these impacts unfold and how they can be mitigated,” he noted. The partnership aims to address this gap through targeted research and policy interventions.

Focus on policy impact and community engagement

The AUS–UNDP agreement includes a strong emphasis on understanding the effects of climate change and crises on persons with disabilities. It aims to support data-driven policymaking and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. Community outreach and awareness are also central to the collaboration, with a goal of encouraging co-created solutions rooted in local realities and lived experiences.

Advancing AUS' role in inclusive development

This collaboration reinforces AUS’ mission to contribute to society through knowledge, innovation, and collaborative engagement. It also strengthens the university’s position as a regional and global hub for inclusive research, shaping long-term development outcomes that benefit diverse communities.