Supporting Students with Disabilities and Special Educational Needs in Qatar
Qatar has made significant strides in fostering an inclusive educational environment for students with disabilities and special educational needs (SEN). Through a combination of government initiatives, specialized institutions, and collaborative efforts between educational and healthcare sectors, the country aims to provide equitable access to quality education, mental health services, and school counseling for all students.
Government Initiatives and Inclusive Education The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) has been at the forefront of integrating mainstream education. As of 2024, inclusive classrooms have been established in 82 schools across Qatar, accommodating students with various disabilities. These classrooms are tailored to meet the individual needs of students, ensuring they receive appropriate support within the general education setting. To further support these initiatives, the MoEHE launched an electronic service in August 2024, enabling Qatari students with disabilities to obtain educational vouchers. These vouchers, ranging from QR 43,000 to QR 78,000, are designed to provide financial assistance based on the level of support required, promoting equal educational opportunities for all students. Specialized Institutions and Support Centers Several institutions in Qatar offer specialized services to cater to the diverse needs of students with disabilities:
- Roa’a Center for Assessment, Counseling, and Support: Operated under the MoEHE, Roa’a Center provides comprehensive evaluation, counseling, and support services. The center’s multidisciplinary team occupational includes specialists in physiotherapy, language therapy, speech and therapy, psychotherapy, and special education.
- Shafallah Center: Established in 1999, Shafallah Center focuses on the welfare of individuals with intellectual disabilities, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders. The center offers health services, special care, and educational programs, aiming to integrate individuals with disabilities into society.
- Omega Center for Special Needs Education: Omega Center provides individualized education programs (IEPs), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavior intervention. The center caters to children with psychiatric, physical, educational, and social challenges, offering a nurturing environment for therapeutic education.
Mental Health Services and School Counseling Mental health and emotional well-being are integral components of the support system for students with disabilities in Qatar:
- Student Counseling and Accessibility Services at UDST: The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) offers free, confidential support through its Student Counseling and Accessibility Services (SCAS). Services include mental health counseling,accessibility support, psycho- education, and advocacy, aiming to eliminate barriers and empower students to achieve their full potential.
- Community College of Qatar: The Counseling and Special/Social Needs Section provides a wide range of counseling services, including personal counseling, stress and anxiety management, crisis intervention, and accommodations for students with special needs.The center also offers specialized interventions to help students respond to academic challenges.
- Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC): HMC’s School Rehabilitation Services Program offers clinical and evaluative services for students with disabilities. The program provides interdisciplinary evaluations, behavioral assessments, and consultation services to support inclusion in schools.
