Kuwait City: Students with special needs have the potential to academically excel in all phases of education, prompting the State of Kuwait to provide necessary assistance to enable this sector of society to thrive. The State of Kuwait, at the highest level, has committed to supporting people with special needs to achieve educational excellence, as stated by Abdulaziz Al-Suwayed, the head of special education at the Ministry of Education.
According to Kuwait News Agency, since the establishment of the first special needs school in the mid-1950s, Kuwait has been a pioneer in supporting this important societal sector. Al-Suwayed highlighted that throughout the late 1950s and 1980s, the state opened several educational facilities specifically designed to accommodate individuals with special needs. Numerous schools across the country are tailored to the specific disabilities of students, providing comprehensive services including public, health, and social support to students and their families.
Al-Suwayed further explained that these services extend to offering entertainment and transportation options for students. Additionally, educational grants and support, including lodging, allowances, and monthly grants, are available to students from GCC countries, benefiting both Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti students.
Mairam Mustafa, headmistress of Al-Amal School for students with auditory disabilities, praised the Ministry of Education's role in supporting students with special needs, noting that comprehensive services are available to their students. Similarly, Omar Al-Kandri, headmaster of Al-Warsh School for students with mental disabilities, commended the Ministry's exceptional support, highlighting the availability of the latest technological advancements in special needs schools, which has significantly contributed to the educational success of many students.
Currently, Kuwait hosts approximately 20 special needs schools, with 11 dedicated to female students and nine for male students.