Minister praises Hind's support for blind student

Dubai : Dr Hanif Hassan, Minister of Education, praised Shaikha Hind Bint Maktoum Bin Juma'a Al Maktoum's gesture of sponsoring the Grade 12 Mais Ahmad Hamudi, the blind student with excellent grades. This is a source of pride for the Ministry of Education and an honour for all UAE students.

Shaikha Hind is the wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Hassan expressed the gratitude of the educational sector to Shaikha Hind, emphasising that this gesture is but a drop in the ocean of goodness and charity she offers society and the needy on a regular basis.

Despite her sight impairment since birth, Mais scored 97.8 per cent and ranked one of the top students in the first semester.

Dr Hassan said: "Since the results were announced last week, the Ministry began its preparations for honouring the student who proved to be an excellent student despite the complaints of some about the examination standards and results. Her sight impairment didn't prevent her from studying in the school and this embodies her true desire of excellence and persistence."

He reviewed the results of Mais in all subjects and noted her remarkable scores. Despite her challenges, she managed to answer the questions brilliantly and efficiently. Her answers were very accurate and eloquent. Mais is also known for her good manners and punctuality at school with no absence.

"Mais is an excellent example for all students and this is a great message for all the students to make greater efforts in their studies and real life. Disabilities do not prevent students from continuing their life or success. All the members of the Ministry and Education should give great concern to the special needs students."

"President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a law in 2006 that such people will enjoy their rights and have equal learning opportunities in all UAE public schools, rehabilitation centres, adults learners centres and continuous learning. The law also established alternative learning strategies and provided excellent facilities for special need students", the minister said.