Abu Dhabi: Special Olympics UAE and the local organising committee today held an event in partnership with Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, to announce the venue as a partner for the upcoming Special Olympics IX Mena Games Abu Dhabi 2019 and Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
Zayed University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Special Olympics UAE to act as a training venue for the Games’ volunteer programme. The university will play a major part in helping to source volunteers via its student body and assisting in the training of volunteers. As part of the agreement, Zayed University will also introduce several Special Olympics-themed syllabuses as part of the university curriculum.
As part of the event, Olympic World champion, Allyson Felix, who is currently in the UAE on behalf of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, gave a speech encouraging students to sign up and get involved as volunteers at the Games.
Allyson was recently challenged by NBA legend, Kobe Bryant, to coach Special Olympics sprinters for the upcoming Games and attended a Special Olympics takeover at TrainYAS last night to coach dozens of Special Olympics athletes.
Shaikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, President of Zayed University, expressed gratitude for hosting the 2019 Special Olympics in Abu Dhabi, placing the capital as the first city in the Middle East and North Africa to organise this major international event, which is dedicated to those with intellectual disabilities.
“Naming them People of Determination translates our wise leadership’s vision towards their capabilities,” she said.
“Many people of determination grasp special talents and the key to becoming innovators in various fields. We’re proud to note numerous names that shined in culture and art exhibitions. It is important to encourage competition among people of determination, increase their capabilities and enhance their self-confidence.”
