Dr. Haidar Al Yousuf appointed Executive Director of Takamul

Dr. Al Yousuf will spearhead Takamul's efforts to build resources for people with special needs in critical areas including healthcare, accessibility, education and employment.

Ahmad Bin Byat, Chairman of the Dubai Education Council said: "With his vast experience, Dr. Al Yousuf is the ideal person to lead Takamul's mission of creating a more inclusive environment where people with special needs can play a bigger role in society.

"His academic credentials and proven leadership in related fields will be invaluable as Takamul seeks to achieve its mission."

Dr. Al Yousuf has worked as a specialist family physician and was in charge of the outreach programmes unit in the primary healthcare section in the Department of Health and Medical Services (DoHMS). He was also a member of the executive committee and head of the media committee for primary health care.

Acknowledging his appointment, Dr Al Yousuf said: "I am honoured to take up this responsibility. I look forward to developing Takamul into the leading regional centre of excellence for special-needs expertise.

"We will be conducting a public campaign to reinforce the message that people with special needs can equally contribute to society. We will also be working to build partnerships with various stakeholders who can support us in our mission."

A qualified medical professional from Dundee University, UK, he is a registered member of the British General Medical Council. He has also passed the MRCGP specialist examination and worked as a house officer in general medicine and family medicine at Tayside NHS Trust, Scotland, UK.

Dr. Al Yousuf led the establishment of the family medicine branch and the media committee of the Emirates Medical Association. He is an active member of the 'UAE Free of Thalassemia' project and was one of the organizers of the highly successful "Big Breakfast' campaign in support of thalassemia patients.

He is undertaking a Masters programme in strategic leadership and management from Cranfield University, one of the world's top management schools.