UAE Unveils US$60 Million Initiative To Enhance Accessible Education For Visually Impaired Students In Ethiopia

The UAE, under the guidance of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has unveiled a US$60 million (AED220 million) initiative. This project, led by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, aims to develop schools for visually impaired students in Ethiopia. The initiative is a collaboration with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and follows the success of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind, opened in Addis Ababa in May 2024.

With approximately 1.2 million visually impaired individuals in Ethiopia, including 332,000 who are blind, this initiative addresses a critical need. Many rural areas lack adequate educational and healthcare services. Ethiopia also faces high rates of trachoma, a preventable eye disease affecting underserved communities. The new schools will integrate advanced assistive technologies and specialised curricula to empower students for higher education and employment.

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H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasised the UAE's dedication to supporting people of determination globally. He stated that providing visually impaired students in Ethiopia with inclusive learning environments is crucial for their potential development. "This initiative represents the shared commitment by the UAE and Ethiopia to ensure that everyone, regardless of the challenges they may face, can thrive in an inclusive and equitable global society," he said.

Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan highlighted that sustainable development and strategic collaboration are essential for lasting change. "The UAE has long recognised that sustainable development and strategic collaboration are the key drivers of lasting change," he noted. This partnership aligns with African states' vision to invest in education as a catalyst for future prosperity.

First Lady Zinash Tayachew expressed gratitude towards the UAE for its ongoing support in ensuring quality education for all citizens. "We are grateful to the UAE for their continued partnership," she said. This collaboration aims to create an inclusive society where every student can succeed regardless of their abilities.

Mohamed Haji AlKhoori stressed that education is a fundamental right and every child deserves an environment that supports their unique needs. "Education is a fundamental right, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn in an environment that supports their unique needs," he stated. Strengthening educational systems lays the groundwork for a more inclusive future.

Expanding Educational Opportunities

The new schools will form part of a network alongside the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind. This network aims to expand access to inclusive education across Ethiopia. The UAE's commitment ensures that every visually impaired child can thrive in supportive learning environments regardless of socioeconomic status.

This initiative underscores how global partnerships can drive significant impact by ensuring education remains a catalyst for opportunity and empowerment across generations.

With inputs from WAM