Abu Dhabi University Partners With Ma’an And Zayed Authority To Train Inclusion Advocates For Future Generations

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has successfully concluded its 'Inclusion Advocates of Tomorrow' initiative. This programme, organised by ADU Innovate in collaboration with the Zayed Authority for People of Determination, Ma’an, and Key2Enable, aligns with the UAE's Year of Community. It aims to foster a more inclusive society by enhancing accessibility and awareness through innovation and education.

Over the past year, more than 100 students from ADU engaged in a comprehensive learning experience. This journey combined theoretical knowledge on inclusive design principles with practical exposure. Students visited the Zayed Authority for People of Determination to see how assistive technologies are applied in real educational settings, promoting inclusive innovation.

The programme received support from Ma’an's Community Volunteering Activation Program (CVAP). It guided participants through concepts of inclusive education, accessibility frameworks, and tools from Key2Enable like adaptive keyboards and learning software. These experiences deepened students' understanding of inclusion challenges and inspired innovative solutions for accessibility in education and beyond.

Professor Montasir Qasymeh from ADU stated: "We strongly believe that innovation begins with inclusion. This program reflects our commitment to the UAE’s vision of building an equitable society where no one is left behind. By bringing together academia, technology partners, and government organisations, we are turning the principles of inclusion into practical action. Our students have shown that when given the tools and opportunity, supporting People of Determination not only drives meaningful change but also inspires creativity, collaboration, and social progress."

Jose Rubinger from Key2enable highlighted: "Through our collaboration with Abu Dhabi University, Ma’an, and Zayed Authority for People of Determination, we are redefining how assistive technologies can advance inclusive education. The ‘Inclusion Advocates of Tomorrow’ programme demonstrates the power of innovation to break barriers and equip future leaders with the skills to create a more accessible society."

Commitment to Lasting Social Impact

Alyaziah Alhashmi from Ma’an added: "At Ma’an, we believe in the power of collaboration to create lasting social impact. Our partnership with Abu Dhabi University, Zayed Authority for People of Determination, and Key2enable exemplifies how shared innovation can empower people of determination and promote inclusion at every level of society."

ADU continues to lead in creating environments where all abilities are valued. The university offers various assistive technologies such as screen readers and speech-to-text software. Training sessions on accessibility awareness further support this mission. As an innovation hub, ADU is committed to fostering accessibility and community impact.

Through initiatives like these, ADU ensures that future generations are equipped not only with knowledge but also with empathy and purpose. The university remains dedicated to its mission of nurturing an inclusive society where everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.

With inputs from WAM