UAE Citizens to Train in Special Education Through New 4-Year Programm

The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has launched a four-year academic programme to train UAE male jobseekers in special education, aligning with the UAE's Emiratisation strategy.

Currently, ZHO employs 161 UAE special education teachers and plans to expand its workforce through partnerships with UAE institutions. The initiative is designed to enhance services for people with disabilities by equipping local professionals with specialised skills. The programme is supported by strategic partners, including the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), the Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department, and the National and Reserve Service Authority.

UAEU selects students from national service graduates and enrolls them in a special education programme with sub-specialisations in intellectual disabilities, autism, and multiple disabilities. The university provides field training and hands-on courses to enhance expertise. The Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department manages candidate selection, monitors trainee performance, and facilitates employment contracts.

The department also fully covers student stipends throughout the four-year programme. ZHO oversees student selection, training, and employment within 90 days of graduation. The National and Reserve Service Authority coordinates with all entities to identify and enroll suitable candidates.

30 male students are currently enrolled in special education studies, with one already employed.

The Emiratisation strategy focuses on integrating UAE nationals into the private workforce through employment quotas, meaning mandatory hiring targets for companies in key sectors and training programs designed to align UAE talent with market demands.