UAE Boosts Special Education Workforce
Abu Dhabi Organization Trains UAE Citizens in Special Education Over a Four-Year Program
The Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) has launched an ambitious program aimed at training UAE citizens in the field of special education. The organization's goal is to localize the profession of special education and contribute to the development of human services for People of Determination (individuals with special needs). The program ensures that Emirati professionals receive the highest level of training to effectively communicate and provide services to those in need.
The Goal and Significance of the Program
ZHO currently employs 161 Emirati special educators and plans further expansions through partnerships with UAE institutions. The organization emphasizes that localizing special education not only raises professional standards but also ensures that Emirati professionals directly understand and reflect local culture, traditions, and societal values. This is especially important for People of Determination, as shared cultural backgrounds and values facilitate more effective communication and personalized services.
Currently, 30 male students are enrolled in special education studies, with one having already started working in the field. During their education, students can specialize in sub-disciplines such as intellectual disabilities, autism, or multiple disabilities.
Strategic Partners and Collaborations
The initiative is supported by several strategic partners, including the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department, and the National and Reserve Service Authority. UAEU is responsible for selecting candidates from national service graduates and providing them admission into the special education program. The university also offers practical and additional training courses to deepen the students' professional knowledge.
The Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department supervises candidate selection, monitors student performance, and assists in securing job offers. It also fully covers the students' scholarships during the four-year training. ZHO is responsible for selecting students, overseeing their training, and ensuring employment within 90 days post-graduation. The National and Reserve Service Authority coordinates collaboration with all involved organizations to identify and admit candidates who have completed national service.
Long-term Impacts of the Program
This initiative aims not only to strengthen the local workforce in special education but also to equip Emirati professionals with skills to effectively support People of Determination. In the long run, the program can contribute to developing a more inclusive and supportive society in the UAE, where everyone has opportunities for growth and social participation.
The program launched by ZHO and its partners clearly demonstrates that the UAE is making serious efforts to provide quality services for people with special needs while developing the local workforce. This effort is not only outstanding in terms of social responsibility but also signifies the UAE's long-term strategies for achieving autonomy and excellence in human services.
The success of this program can be exemplary not only in the UAE but in the region as well, and it may inspire other countries to launch similar initiatives to support people with special needs.
