The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has reiterated its commitment to improving employment prospects for People of Determination by offering vital resources and assistance.
The organization is actively working to localize specialized professions, such as special education teaching, through collaborations with key UAE entities.
ZHO emphasized that localizing special education roles will significantly enhance services for People of Determination. Training Emirati professionals to meet high standards will ensure effective communication and service delivery, as they share the same cultural and societal values as the people they serve.
As part of this effort, ZHO has introduced a four-year academic program aimed at training Emirati male jobseekers in special education, in alignment with the UAE’s Emiratisation strategy.
Currently, ZHO employs 161 Emirati special education teachers and has plans for further expansion through partnerships with local institutions. Additionally, 30 male students are currently enrolled in special education courses, with one already employed in the field.
This initiative is supported by strategic partners, including 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 specialized programs with focuses on intellectual disabilities, autism, and multiple disabilities. The university also provides practical training and additional hands-on courses to further develop students’ expertise.
The Abu Dhabi Government Empowerment Department manages candidate selection, monitors trainees’ performance, and facilitates employment contracts. It also provides full stipends to students throughout the four-year program.
ZHO is responsible for selecting the students, overseeing their training, and ensuring they are employed within 90 days of graduation. The National and Reserve Service Authority helps identify national service graduates for the program and coordinates their enrollment.
This initiative aims to bolster the local workforce in special education, equipping Emirati professionals with the skills necessary to effectively support People of Determination.
(Inputs from WAM)
