The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has reaffirmed its dedication to improving employment opportunities for People of Determination by offering vital resources and support. The organization is actively collaborating with relevant UAE entities to localize specialized professions, such as special education teaching.
ZHO emphasised that localising the special education profession will advance humanitarian services tailored to People of Determination. Training Emirati professionals to meet high professional standards ensures effective communication and service delivery, particularly as they share the same cultural background, traditions, and societal values.
As part of this initiative, ZHO has launched a four-year academic programme to train Emirati male jobseekers in special education, supporting the UAE's Emiratisation strategy.
Currently, ZHO employs 161 Emirati special education teachers, with plans to expand through partnerships with UAE institutions. Additionally, 30 male students are enrolled in special education studies, one of whom has already begun working.
The initiative is backed by strategic partners such as 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 specialized special education program with sub-specializations in intellectual disabilities, autism, and multiple disabilities. The university also offers field training and additional practical courses to enhance students' skills.
The Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department manages candidate selection, monitors trainees' performance, and helps facilitate employment contracts. Additionally, it covers the full stipends of students throughout the four-year program.
ZHO is responsible for selecting students, managing their training, and ensuring they are employed within 90 days of graduation. The National and Reserve Service Authority works with various entities to identify candidates who have completed national service and assist with their enrollment. This initiative aims to strengthen the local workforce in special education by equipping Emirati professionals with the necessary skills to support People of Determination effectively.
