Chapter 11: Education Reform’s Impact on the Development of Special Education Policy in Qatar

This chapter provides a brief history of policies, procedures, and services for individuals with disabilities in Qatar during a period of rapid development and prosperity over the last 15 years. Important developments in the creation of these policies and procedures in governmental and nongovernmental agencies charged with providing different services to individuals with disabilities and preparing professionals to work in the field in Qatar are described. Topics include the maximizing of special education within the country’s overall objectives for societal reform and economic, social, and cultural development. The chapter provides a general description of the policies and procedures governing special education services in the recently created independent schools for students who have additional needs for support in their learning. The chapter concludes with recommendations for quality enhancements and assurance for special education related to policies and procedures in Qatar.