Autism teacher training for ADU students

Dr Khawla Al Saadi and Professor Waqar Ahmad

The students of Abu Dhabi University (ADU) will be trained and equipped with practical skills on teaching and interacting with autistic people.
ADU has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Autism Society (EAS), to collaborate in preparing qualified special education staff to teach individuals with autism.
The agreement also aims to spread awareness on autism and its related challenges, among different segments of society.
The three-year renewable agreement was signed by Professor Waqar Ahmad, Provost and Interim Chancellor of ADU and Dr Khawla Al Saadi, EAS's chairwoman.
To enhance autism awareness and equip ADU's students with practical skills in teaching autistic students, the MoU will foster continuous collaboration between the two parties. It will facilitate workshops, specialised courses and conferences and develop practical training opportunities for ADU students at the Emirates Autism Society and its affiliated centers.
The two parties will also jointly run events, exhibitions and research programmes to promote community awareness of autism.
Prof Ahmad said: "We are delighted to join hands with EAS, in line with our mission to promote knowledge relevant to different areas of specialisation among our students, so that they may go on to serve varied social segments."
"Through this synergy with ADU, we seek to provide future educators with both the academic knowledge and practical skills to work with people with autism," said Dr Saadi.
EAS deals with autism disorders, treats affected patients and helps them integrate positively into society.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi

Ismail Sebugwaawo

ismail@khaleejtimes.com