Under the directives of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has allocated AED 220 million ($60 million) to develop schools and support the educational needs of blind and visually impaired students across Ethiopia.
This initiative was overseen by Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Work, in collaboration with Ethiopia and under the patronage of Zayed Legacy Humanitarian Foundation.
Building on the the Success of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School
It builds upon the success of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind in Addis Ababa.
The school was inaugurated by May 2024, in the presence of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, First Lady Zinash Tayachew, and senior UAE officials.
The new agreement signing was in the presence of:
- Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State
- Mohammed Haji Khouri, Director-General of the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation
- The Ethiopian First Lady Zinash Tayachew
Expanding Educational Access for Blind Students
The initiative includes the development of several new schools in Ethiopia.
Ensuring a fully equipped learning environment tailored to the needs of blind and visually impaired students.
It will provide specialized classrooms, recreational spaces, and educational programs.
All of them designed to accommodate their unique learning requirements.
Additionally, it will offer high-quality learning resources.
As well as a specialized teacher training program.
In order to equip educators with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate students successfully into mainstream colleges and universities.
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Partnership between the UAE and Ethiopia
The initiative ensures that blind students receive specialized support aligned with Ethiopia’s national curriculum.
Ethiopian First Lady Zinash Tayachew expressed her gratitude to the UAE for its ongoing partnership, which aligns with Ethiopia’s national goals of providing high-quality education to all citizens, regardless of challenges.
“Through our shared commitment, we aim to build a society where everyone has equal opportunities for learning and success,” she said.
UAE Believes That Education is a Right for Everyone
Mohammed Haji Khouri, Director-General of Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, reaffirmed that education is a fundamental right.
He added that every child deserves access to learning in an environment that supports their unique needs.
He also emphasized that strengthening educational systems contributes to a more inclusive and equitable future.
“This initiative highlights the importance of global partnerships.
As they create a lasting impact and ensure that education remains a gateway of opportunities and empowerment for future generations,” Khouri added.
