The Government of Guyana and the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday commissioned the Yas School of Inspiration – a modern facility designed to meet the needs of children living with disabilities.
The project was executed by the Government of Guyana in conjunction with the Office of the First Lady, which partnered with the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish the $100 million facility at Crane, West Coast of Demerara (WCD).
It is designed to cater for 50 children with special needs.
UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy arrived in Guyana on Thursday for the event. At the commissioning, President Irfaan Ali said the establishment of the centre is a celebration of the strong bond between Guyana and the UAE.
“Today is a celebration of friendship. Today is a celebration of cooperation. Today is also a celebration of diplomacy at work. It is a celebration of two states, two countries coming together with a common understanding as to what value system we measure development by. And the value system we chose to adopt is one that puts people first, and one that gives people an opportunity to be the best they can be,” President Ali said.
He said the Yas School of Inspiration is a reflection of his Administration’s commitment to every citizen regardless of their needs and abilities. The school, he said, will foster understanding in a world that often fears difference, and will nurture potential where unique minds are not seen as limited.
The school is set to open its doors within two weeks, and according to the President students are already being enrolled.
“Similarly, at this school that is designed for about 50 students, enrollment would have started but we are now matching the teachers with the children, so in two weeks, you will see activities here. But importantly, we are going to establish a board at this school and that board will comprise of the parents of those children, so that you will have direct supervision, direct management of the work that will be done here, so that you will be comfortable with what is done here for your children,” President Ali said.
He said in partnership with the First Lady’s Office, work will also be done on the outskirts of the schools to create a safe, inclusive ecosystem within the compound.
Minister of Education, Sonia Parag noted the importance of having schools for children with special needs and support for them.
“In 2020, when our President, Dr Irfaan Ali began his first term, there were just 13 recognized SEN spaces across the country. Today, in 2026, there are 48 SEN spaces accommodating approximately 1,300 learners. That represents an increase of 35 SEN spaces in less than 5 years, including in the COVID-19 period. Behind those figures are real classrooms, trained educators and families who now have places where their children can learn and be supported,” Minister Parag said.
Minister Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, in her address, said the school was more than an educational institution but a gateway to improve the quality of life of children and their families.
“It is often said that the true mark of the sophistication of any society is how well, how thoughtfully and how respectfully each member of that society is regarded. I have no doubt, standing here with you today, proudly, that your community is one that sees, feels and loves each and every member. Thank you for allowing us to be part of this,” the UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation said.
The initiative was also praised by the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, and the Chairman of the National Disability Commission of Guyana, Ganesh Singh, who were among the official present to witness the launch of the Yas School of Inspiration.
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