NMSS Launches Groundbreaking Inclusion Programme Across Six UAE Universities to Empower Future Innovators
ABU DHABI – The National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) has taken a transformative step toward building a more inclusive future in the UAE by launching the Universal Design for Inclusion Programme in collaboration with six major universities. Aiming to inspire the next generation of changemakers, the initiative – for the first time in the region – integrates accessibility-focused teaching into the university curriculum.
The initiative is designed to raise awareness of the practical barriers faced by people with disabilities, particularly those with mobility, cognitive and communication disabilities. This is in line with the UAE’s broader inclusion and accessibility objectives. The primary objective of the project is to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to create inclusive solutions and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
As part of this collaboration, NMSS is collaborating with six Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) campuses across the Emirates, as well as Abu Dhabi University, University of Sharjah, Khalifa University, Al Ain University and Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI). With a total of 11 campuses participating, the scope and national significance of the project is highlighted.
Practical Learning Through Empathy and Innovation
The program began with empathy workshops – immersive experiences designed to help students understand the everyday struggles of resilient people. These interactive workshops gave participants the opportunity to put themselves in the shoes of people experiencing accessibility barriers in order to gain a deeper understanding that would impact their future perspectives.
Following these courses, students participated in mentoring sessions with business executives, pioneers, and accessibility advocates. These experts offered advice, shared their own experiences, and provided students with technical expertise as they developed and prototyped solutions that met real-world community needs.
Making a Real Impact Through Inclusive Innovation
As part of the final phase, student teams will present their prototypes to a panel of experts.The evaluation will focus on functionality, feasibility, and potential for real-world implementation. Top-performing teams will be honoured through the Expert Jury Award, with winning projects moving into the Startup Dojo incubation platform hosted by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa).
Sheraa will provide mentorship, pitch training, and funding guidance to help students transform their designs into viable start-ups that can make a meaningful impact. Speaking on the partnership, Her Excellency Sara Belhaif Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said:
“This programme reflects our belief that inclusive innovation is essential for strong, thriving communities. We are proud to support these talented young minds and guide them in shaping practical, scalable ventures that meet real social needs.”
A Shared Responsibility for a More Inclusive UAE
His Excellency Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, CEO of Emirates Foundation and Vice Chair of NMSS, described the programme as a powerful blend of education and action. He noted that the initiative not only raises awareness but also cultivates tangible solutions by directly involving students in solving real accessibility challenges.
“We are immensely grateful to the universities that have embedded this programme into their curriculum,” said Al Shamsi. “It’s not just about raising awareness, but about building an inclusive culture of innovation from the ground up.”
Supporting the UAE’s Community and Inclusive Vision
The “Year of Community – Hand in Hand” campaign and the UAE’s National Vision for Inclusive Development are aligned with the Global Design for Inclusiveness initiative. NMSS establishes accessibility as a fundamental component of innovation and social progress by promoting collaboration between government agencies, academia and corporate sectors.
This unique initiative stands as a model for integrating resilient people not only into the fabric of society, but also into the design of the future – ensuring a more empathetic, inclusive and resilient UAE for generations to come.