Severe disabilities in Saudi Arabia : current status and improvements for the future

الملخص EN

This paper present a brief historical background of the general and the special education systems in Saudi Arabia and the limitations of education for those students with severe disabilities who face a lack of special education services after they finish elementary school.

These students need special education and related services in their schools and communities.

There are no laws regulating the rights of these students in schools such as accommodation, inclusion, and universal design.

These students need to be able to interact with non-disabled peers in schools and communities.

Based on evidence-based practices in the United States, this paper propose recommendations and suggestions for educators, parents, policymakers, and other professionals to improve the special education services for students with severe disabilities in Saudi Arabia.

One of these recommendations is establishing various facilities and agencies to serve persons with severe disabilities.

Providing assistive technology is an approach that helps these students communicate and interact effectively in and out of schools.

Finally, certification and training needs to be provided to those who work with these students.