Special Olympics UAE and Gulf Medical University Partner to Enhance Inclusive Healthcare Training and Services

Special Olympics UAE and Gulf Medical University (GMU) have announced a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in health and training. This partnership aligns with the UAE’s vision to empower People of Determination with intellectual and developmental disabilities, championing their full inclusion in society. The two-year agreement initiates joint training programmes for GMU students, focusing on the health needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These efforts will include practical participation in the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes programme, offering free health screenings and education. Key goals of the collaboration include equipping future healthcare professionals with the skills to deliver compassionate and inclusive healthcare and expanding access to preventive services. The partnership also aims to foster an academic environment conducive to the development of innovative health solutions. The MoU outlines frameworks for volunteering opportunities for GMU students across various Special Olympics UAE programmes. Additionally, Gulf Medical University and its academic health centres will join the Special Olympics UAE Unified Healthcare Providers Network. Tala Al Ramahi stated, “This partnership builds on the UAE’s proud legacy of support for People of Determination and reflects a national commitment to dignity and inclusion. By equipping future health professionals to deliver world-class, inclusive care, we will help ensure more individuals can thrive and participate fully in sport, education, and society.” Professor Manda Venkatramana commented, “Through this MoU, we will integrate inclusive health concepts into our curricula, provide specialised training in working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and contribute to preventive screenings and awareness programmes.” Team V.4-EM-UAE