In Abu Dhabi, a new education policy emphasizing inclusivity has been implemented, yet many parents of children with special learning needs continue to face significant challenges. Despite the policy, numerous schools have rejected children with conditions such as ADHD and autism, often citing the need for additional support like shadow teachers, which can be financially burdensome for families. One mother shared her experience of her son being turned away by over 10 schools due to his ADHD, despite his exceptional linguistic abilities. The high cost of hiring a shadow teacher, in addition to school fees, has become a major obstacle for many families.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has introduced a new inclusion policy aimed at preventing schools from rejecting students solely because they cannot accommodate their needs. Under this policy, schools must notify ADEK of any rejections, providing evidence for their decision. ADEK will then assess whether the school’s decision should be upheld or revoked, potentially mandating the school to accept the student. This policy will become mandatory for all private and charter schools by September 2026.
Parents are calling for increased capacity in schools to support students with special needs, ensuring that no child is unfairly rejected due to their condition. The financial burden on families is significant, as they often have to cover both school fees and the cost of a shadow teacher. This situation highlights the need for more inclusive and supportive educational environments that cater to diverse learning needs.
Another parent, Dana Arab, shared her experience with her sons, who faced multiple rejections before finally securing a place in a school that was willing to provide necessary support. Her youngest son, who had delayed speech, was initially rejected by several schools, which recommended enrolling him as a special needs student despite his condition not being severe. Eventually, he was accepted into a school where his older siblings were enrolled, thanks to a cooperative teacher.
In Dubai, a parent named Palani faced similar challenges when her son was rejected from a school due to his speech delay. Despite his ability to express basic needs, the school cited his speech delay as the reason for rejection. Parents like Palani are questioning the necessity of such rigorous assessments at a young age and are advocating for a more flexible approach to early education.
Overall, while Abu Dhabi’s new inclusion policy is a step forward, there remains a significant gap between policy and practice. Parents continue to advocate for greater support and understanding from schools, emphasizing the need for inclusive education that values every child’s unique abilities and needs.
