A S U

Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University, attended the fourth day’s events of the presidential initiative “Tamkeen”, held under the patronage of Prof. Mohamed Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and as part of Ain Shams University’s new vision to support students with disabilities.

In his speech, Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen emphasized that the university is one integrated community, and that our strength lies in diversity and inclusion among all our students from every background. He stressed that creating an inclusive and supportive culture goes beyond providing facilities, it is embodied in mutual respect, active collaboration, and equal opportunities for participation and excellence.

He also praised the vital and pivotal role played by the Education and Student Affairs Sector and the Center for Students with Disabilities Services in university activities, noting that the center is a key partner in designing and implementing programs that ensure full inclusivity. This allows students with disabilities to participate effectively and showcase their talents and abilities across cultural, athletic, and social fields.

The University President also participated with students in activities supporting the hearing-impaired, including learning sign language and art workshops led by students with disabilities from the Art Education Department at the Faculty of Specific Education, with a focus on teaching drawing.

Additionally, sign language lessons were provided to non-hearing-impaired students to enhance communication and effective inclusion, alongside programs aimed at developing skills among both hearing and hearing-impaired students, including etiquette in communicating with the deaf and sign language training.

Prof. Rana El-Helaly, Director of the Center for Students with Disabilities Services, gave a comprehensive explanation of the concept of deafness and the different degrees and types of hearing impairment. She also reviewed the educational, social, psychological, and communication challenges faced by individuals with hearing impairments, along with rehabilitation methods such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, and linguistic and speech rehabilitation programs. She conducted detailed training on effective communication methods with the deaf, focusing on sign language and visual and verbal communication skills.

The President also commended the participation of the Faculty of Education (Special Education Department) and the Faculty of Specific Education for their student support throughout the events.

Ms. Magda Shenouda Sadeek, a sign language interpreter, in collaboration with students from the Special Education Department, presented theatrical sketches and artistic performances using sign language, which helped raise awareness and break communication barriers among students. Ms. Amal Hanafi Mahmoud also participated, presenting concepts related to the hearing-impaired and individuals with hearing disabilities.

The events, organized for students, faculty staff, teaching assistants, and administrative staff, were held under the administrative and executive supervision of Mr. Ibrahim Said, Assistant Secretary-General for Education and Student Affairs at Ain Shams University.