The announcement coincides with the African Union Summit, where development in Africa is a central theme. The initiative aims to address the educational needs of approximately 1.2 million visually impaired individuals in Ethiopia, including 332,000 who are classified as blind. Many of these individuals reside in rural regions with limited access to educational and healthcare services.
This project builds upon the success of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind in Addis Ababa, inaugurated in May 2024. The new schools will serve as centres of excellence, integrating advanced assistive technologies, specialised curricula, and vocational programmes designed to equip visually impaired students with skills essential for higher education and employment opportunities.
The agreement was formalised by Mohamed Haji AlKhoori, Director General of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, in the presence of Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trustee of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, and Zinash Tayachew, First Lady of Ethiopia.
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, emphasised the UAE's commitment to supporting people of determination worldwide. He stated that the initiative aims to provide visually impaired students in Ethiopia with inspiring and inclusive learning environments that cater to their specific needs, enabling them to realise their full potential.
Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan highlighted the importance of sustainable development and strategic collaboration as drivers of lasting change. He noted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to uplifting communities, creating economic opportunities, and expanding access to essential services. This collaboration aligns with the vision of African nations to invest in education as a catalyst for future prosperity, empowering youth to drive sustainable growth.
First Lady Zinash Tayachew expressed gratitude for the UAE's continued partnership, which supports Ethiopia's goal of providing quality education to all citizens, regardless of their abilities. She emphasised that the shared commitment will help create a more inclusive society where every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Mohamed Haji AlKhoori reiterated that education is a fundamental right and that every child deserves the opportunity to learn in an environment that supports their unique needs. He stated that strengthening educational systems lays 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.
The new schools, in conjunction with the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind, will form a network across Ethiopia to enhance access to inclusive education. The UAE's commitment to bolstering Ethiopia's educational infrastructure ensures that every visually impaired child, irrespective of socioeconomic background, can thrive in a supportive learning environment and contribute meaningfully to society.
Fikeru Bejo, an IT teacher at the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind, shared his experiences, highlighting the resilience and determination of students to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. He noted that the UAE's generous support has improved facilities, provided specialised training for teachers, and introduced assistive technology that significantly enhances students' learning experiences. This support has not only equipped students for success but also instilled a sense of hope and optimism among them and their families, knowing they have access to better opportunities and a brighter future.
Erth Zayed Philanthropies, established in November 2024, oversees this initiative as part of its mission to consolidate the UAE's global philanthropic efforts. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the organisation upholds the legacy of giving inspired by the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Erth Zayed Philanthropies manages a portfolio of philanthropic foundations and awards across various sectors, aiming to deliver transformative impact to communities in need worldwide.
This landmark initiative not only addresses the immediate educational needs of visually impaired students in Ethiopia but also sets a precedent for international cooperation in promoting inclusive education. By investing in specialised infrastructure and resources, the UAE and Ethiopia are taking significant steps toward creating a more equitable society where every individual has the opportunity to contribute and succeed.