DIDI Joins Forces with National MS Society to Champion Inclusive Innovation Across UAE Campuses

Dubai, 21 April 2025:The Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) is proud to announce its participation in the  Universal Design for Inclusion Program, a landmark initiative launched by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS) to champion accessibility in higher education and innovation.

Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, DIDI joins five other leading universities across the UAE—Abu Dhabi University, University of Sharjah, Khalifa University, Al Ain University, and Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) —in a united effort to integrate inclusive design principles into academic curricula and student-led innovation.

This program is empowering DIDI students to address real-world challenges related to mobility, communication, and cognitive accessibility, with guidance from NMSS ambassadors, industry mentors, and individuals living with chronic conditions. Through empathy-driven workshops and expert-led sessions, students explore how thoughtful design can break barriers and create inclusive environments for all.

Mohammad Abdullah, President of DIDI,  stated "At DIDI, we believe design is a force for societal good. Our collaboration with the National MS Society reflects a shared vision of nurturing designers who create with purpose. Embedding accessibility into design education ensures that our students lead with empathy, relevance, and impact in everything they create."

The initiative involving over 500 students, will culminate in a national showcase of inclusive design prototypes. Winning teams will advance to the  Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa)’s Startup Dojo for mentorship, incubation, and development support—turning ideas into real-world innovations.

As part of the UAE’s  Year of Community  under the theme “Hand in Hand,” this program underscores the power of cross-sector collaboration in shaping a more inclusive future—one where design speaks for everyone.