The UAE has announced a $60 million program to promote educational access for visually impaired pupils in Ethiopia. The program intends to fund new schools, improve learning resources, and provide specialised assistance to kids with visual impairments.
The agreement was signed by Mohamed Haji Al Khoori, Director General of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, and Ethiopia’s First Lady, Zinash Tayachew. Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan, Minister of State and trustee of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, observed the signing, according to state news agency Wam.
Led by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, this effort tackles a crucial need in Ethiopia, where an estimated 1.2 million individuals are visually impaired, with 332,000 classed as blind. The country also has one of the highest incidences of trachoma infection, which is a preventable bacterial eye condition.
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed underlined the UAE’s commitment to empowering people with determination around the world and creating inclusive learning environments. The new schools will use assistive technologies, personalised curricula, and vocational training to prepare students for further education and careers.
This programme expands on the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind, which opened in Addis Abeba in May 2024.
