The UAE has announced a new $60 million (AED220 million) initiative from the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for the development of schools to support the educational needs of visually impaired students across Ethiopia, under the directives of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
This initiative will be led by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, a portfolio entity of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, in collaboration with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. It builds on the success of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind in Addis Ababa, which was inaugurated in May 2024.
HH Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, said that, “The UAE remains dedicated to supporting people of determination worldwide. A key element is ensuring that visually impaired students in Ethiopia can access inspiring and inclusive learning environments that meet their specialized needs, thereby enabling them to reach their full potential.”
Sheikh Theyab further added that 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.
Mohamed Haji AlKhoori, Director-General of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation noted that, “Education is a fundamental right, and every child deserves the opportunity to learn in an environment that supports their unique needs. By strengthening educational systems, we are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and equitable future.”
“This initiative reaffirms the power of global partnerships in driving lasting impact, ensuring that education remains a catalyst for opportunity and empowerment for generations to come,” commented AlKhoori.
