Abu Dhabi, Feb 15 : Under the guidance of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has launched a $60 million initiative through the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation to develop schools catering to the educational needs of visually impaired students across Ethiopia. This initiative builds on the success of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind in Addis Ababa, inaugurated in May 2024.

The project, in collaboration with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, will be managed by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, a part of Erth Zayed Philanthropies. The agreement was signed by Mohamed Haji AlKhoori, Director-General of the foundation, in the presence of Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, and Zinash Tayachew, First Lady of Ethiopia, along with other dignitaries.

Addressing the needs of Ethiopia’s 1.2 million visually impaired population, the initiative will reach underserved rural areas, integrating advanced assistive technologies, specialized curricula, and vocational training programs. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized the UAE’s commitment to empowering visually impaired students, ensuring they access inclusive learning environments. The initiative also supports Ethiopia’s vision of leveraging education as a driver of sustainable development. First Lady Zinash Tayachew expressed gratitude for the UAE’s partnership, highlighting the shared goal of fostering an inclusive society.