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Inclusive Education

Efforts to ensure education for all, including students with special needs and initiatives to promote equality in education.

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Comprehensive Guide to Inclusive Education in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Inclusive education in the UAE is a key focus of the government, reflecting its commitment to providing equitable access to quality education for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The UAE has implemented progressive policies, regulations, and frameworks to ensure that students with diverse abilities are supported in mainstream schools and specialized institutions. Below is a detailed guide covering the essential aspects of inclusive education in the UAE.

1. National Regulations and Policies

The UAE has established a robust legal and policy framework to promote inclusive education. Key regulations and initiatives include:

1.1. Federal Law No. 29 of 2006 (Amended by Federal Law No. 14 of 2009)

  • This law guarantees the rights of individuals with disabilities (referred to as "People of Determination" in the UAE) to education, health, and employment.
  • It mandates that educational institutions provide equal opportunities and reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities.

1.2. The UAE School Inspection Framework

  • Overseen by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and local education authorities (e.g., KHDA in Dubai and ADEK in Abu Dhabi), this framework evaluates schools on their inclusivity practices.
  • Schools are required to demonstrate how they support students with SEND and integrate them into mainstream classrooms.

1.3. Dubai Inclusive Education Policy Framework (2017)

  • Issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), this framework outlines the standards for inclusive education in Dubai.
  • It emphasizes the importance of early identification, individualized education plans (IEPs), and collaboration between schools, parents, and specialists.

1.4. Abu Dhabi Inclusive Education Policy (2018)

  • Issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), this policy ensures that all students, regardless of ability, have access to quality education.
  • It requires schools to provide specialized support services, teacher training, and accessible facilities.

1.5. National Policy for Empowering People of Determination (2017)

  • This policy aims to create an inclusive society by removing barriers to education, employment, and social participation for people with disabilities.

2. General Costs of Inclusive Education

The cost of inclusive education in the UAE varies depending on the type of school (public or private), the level of support required, and the specific services provided.

2.1. Public Schools

  • Public schools in the UAE are free for Emirati nationals, including students with SEND.
  • Non-Emirati residents may be required to pay tuition fees, which are generally lower than private school fees.
  • Specialized support services (e.g., speech therapy, occupational therapy) may incur additional costs if not provided directly by the school.

2.2. Private Schools

  • Private schools in the UAE charge tuition fees, which can range from AED 10,000 to AED 100,000+ per year, depending on the school and curriculum.
  • Additional fees may apply for:
    • Learning support assistants (LSAs) or shadow teachers (AED 5,000–15,000 per month).
    • Specialized assessments (e.g., psycho-educational evaluations) and therapies (AED 300–800 per session).
    • Assistive technologies and resources.

2.3. Financial Support

  • Some schools and organizations offer scholarships or fee reductions for students with SEND.
  • The UAE government provides financial assistance to Emirati families with children who have disabilities.

3. Standard Procedures for Accessing Inclusive Education

Parents and guardians seeking inclusive education for their children in the UAE should follow these steps:

3.1. Identification and Assessment

  • Early identification of special educational needs is crucial. Parents can seek assessments from:
    • Licensed psychologists or medical professionals.
    • School-based specialists (if available).
  • Common assessments include psycho-educational evaluations, speech and language assessments, and occupational therapy evaluations.

3.2. School Selection

  • Research schools that align with the child’s needs. Key considerations include:
    • The school’s inclusivity policies and practices.
    • Availability of specialized support services.
    • Accessibility of facilities.
  • Parents can consult KHDA (Dubai) or ADEK (Abu Dhabi) for guidance on inclusive schools.

3.3. Enrollment Process

  • Submit the child’s assessment reports and medical records during the application process.
  • Meet with the school’s inclusion team to discuss the child’s needs and develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

3.4. Development of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

  • The IEP outlines the child’s learning goals, required accommodations, and support services.
  • It is developed collaboratively by the school, parents, and specialists.

3.5. Ongoing Monitoring and Support

  • Schools are required to regularly monitor the child’s progress and update the IEP as needed.
  • Parents should maintain open communication with teachers and inclusion staff.

4. Country-Specific Considerations

Visitors and immigrants should be aware of the following cultural and practical aspects of inclusive education in the UAE:

4.1. Terminology

  • The UAE uses the term "People of Determination" to refer to individuals with disabilities, reflecting a positive and empowering perspective.

4.2. Cultural Sensitivity

  • The UAE is a multicultural society, and schools are accustomed to working with families from diverse backgrounds.
  • However, attitudes toward disabilities may vary among communities, so it is important to advocate for the child’s needs.

4.3. Language of Instruction

  • The language of instruction in public schools is Arabic, while private schools offer various curricula (e.g., British, American, Indian) in English or other languages.
  • Parents should consider the child’s language proficiency when selecting a school.

4.4. Availability of Services

  • While many schools offer inclusive education, the availability and quality of support services can vary.
  • Some families may need to seek external therapy or support services if the school cannot meet the child’s needs.

4.5. Legal Protections

  • Schools are legally required to accommodate students with SEND, but enforcement of regulations may vary.
  • Parents should familiarize themselves with their rights and escalate concerns to the relevant education authority (e.g., KHDA, ADEK) if necessary.

5. Resources and Support Networks

The UAE offers a range of resources and support networks for families of children with SEND:

5.1. Government Resources

  • Ministry of Community Development (MOCD): Provides services and support for People of Determination.
  • Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (Abu Dhabi): Offers specialized education and rehabilitation services.

5.2. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

  • Dubai Autism Center: Provides therapy and education for children with autism.
  • Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities: Offers training and support for children with various disabilities.

5.3. Parent Support Groups

  • Parent-led organizations and online forums provide a platform for sharing experiences and resources.

5.4. Private Therapy Centers

  • Numerous private centers across the UAE offer specialized services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral therapy.

Conclusion

The UAE is committed to fostering an inclusive education system that supports the diverse needs of all students. While significant progress has been made, parents and guardians should actively engage with schools and education authorities to ensure their child receives the necessary support. By understanding the regulations, costs, and procedures, families can navigate the inclusive education system effectively and provide their children with the best possible opportunities for success.