Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Announces Graduation of the First Cohort of Students with Disabilities and Expands Its Partnership with El Sewedy Technical Academy

In a First for Egypt’s Inclusive Technical Education System

 

Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank announced the graduation of Egypt’s first cohort of students with disabilities within the technical education system, during a ceremony held by El Sewedy Technical Academy to celebrate the graduation of this pioneering class. This milestone marks the successful outcome of a three-year partnership between ADCB and El Sewedy Technical Academy to provide technical education for students with hearing impairments, specializing in ready-made garments.

 

On this occasion, ADCB also announced the expansion of its partnership with El Sewedy Technical Academy to further support persons with disabilities, through doubling the number of sponsored classes starting from the current academic year, in addition to training a new cohort under the “Training for Employment” initiative.

 

ADCB launched this pioneering initiative in partnership with El Sewedy Technical Academy with the aim of preparing a new generation of students capable of meeting the challenges of the future, while empowering them financially and professionally. This initiative is part of the Bank’s broader strategy to achieve financial inclusion and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities. It also aligns with ADCB’s ongoing efforts to support this segment of society through educational initiatives, university scholarships, training-for-employment programs, and the establishment of small enterprises to enhance economic empowerment and facilitate effective integration into society and the labor market—consistent with the State’s vision for Egypt Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Ihab ElSewerky, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, said:

 

“Today, we proudly celebrate the outcome of three years of dedicated effort with the graduation of Egypt’s first cohort of students with disabilities in technical education from El Sewedy Technical Academy. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our strong commitment to inclusive education and to the economic empowerment of all segments of society, as part of the Bank’s sustainability strategy and our efforts to enhance financial inclusion by providing equal educational opportunities that develop young people’s capabilities and prepare them for the labor market.

This achievement underscores the vital role of effective community partnerships in creating real opportunities that empower individuals and generate sustainable social impact. We are also pleased to announce the expansion of our partnership with El Sewedy Technical Academy through two key pillars: sponsoring two additional classes for students with disabilities over three academic years (2025–2028), and expanding the Training for Employment program—reflecting ADCB’s ongoing commitment to supporting this segment, increasing the number of beneficiaries, and strengthening their effective integration into society.”

 

For his part, Engineer Ahmed El Sewedy, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of El Sewedy Electric Foundation, stated:

 

“I am delighted to celebrate the graduation of the first cohort of students with disabilities—an achievement made possible through the support of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank. Guided by our belief that every student deserves a better future, we affirm that equal opportunity is a core pillar of our vision. At El Sewedy Technical Academy, we believe in the importance of education that enables every student to learn, grow, and achieve their aspirations. We are committed to providing continuous support to develop our students’ skills and capabilities. This achievement highlights the vital role of constructive partnerships in opening new horizons and empowering young people to make a tangible difference in their lives.”

 

The students’ journey began with a foundational program focused on teaching sign language and English, ensuring their full integration within and beyond the educational process—reflecting a qualitative investment in human capital development. The curriculum included a comprehensive program combining theoretical education with practical training to develop real professional skills aligned with labor market needs. The program offered a fully integrated educational experience, blending academic study with intensive hands-on training, alongside a comprehensive support system that included transportation, meals, medical insurance, raw materials, and essential educational tools—ensuring a supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students.

 

This initiative aligns with Egypt Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals related to quality education, decent work and economic growth, reduced inequalities, and partnerships for the goals. It is worth noting that investing in the education and training of persons with disabilities is a central pillar of ADCB’s corporate social responsibility strategy and a key component of its efforts to build a more equitable and empowered society. This approach also reflects the Bank’s leadership vision, which places the support and advancement of the most underserved segments of society at the forefront of its priorities.