A S U

In a practical embodiment of the mission of social inclusion and the promotion of human communication, Ain Shams University, in cooperation with the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center, celebrated the graduation of a new cohort of Egyptian Sign Language learners. The event was held within the framework of the cooperation protocol between the two institutions aimed at supporting and empowering deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.

The ceremony was attended by His Grace Bishop Ermia, General Bishop and President of the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center; Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen, President of Ain Shams University; Prof. Ghada Farouk, Vice President for Community Service and Environmental Development; Prof. Hanan El-Saeed, Director of the University’s Blended Learning Center and General Coordinator of the Protocol; and Prof. Suzan El-Kalliny, Media Advisor to the University President, in addition to a number of university and center officials.

Prof. Mohamed Diaa Zain El-Abedeen affirmed that the project represents a pioneering model of cooperation between academic and community institutions in supporting inclusion efforts and building a more aware and equitable society. He noted that Egyptian Sign Language has become a genuine bridge for communication, empowering individuals with hearing disabilities and enhancing their participation in various aspects of life.

For his part, His Grace Bishop Ermia explained that the Egyptian Sign Language Education and Qualification Project, launched ten years ago, has succeeded in providing an integrated humanitarian and educational model to support deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. He praised Ain Shams University’s pioneering role in hosting the project since its inception and providing a supportive educational environment that contributed to its expansion across several Egyptian universities.

In her speech, Prof. Hanan El-Saeed, Director of the Blended Learning Center and General Coordinator of the Protocol, emphasized that the cooperation between Ain Shams University and the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center has successfully transformed the concept of inclusion into practical programs and initiatives that empower persons with disabilities and open new horizons for them in education, media, and community engagement.

She also announced the launch of the “University Media Academy for Persons with Disabilities,” in coordination with Professor Suzan El-Qolini, Professor of Media and Media Advisor to the University President. The initiative aims to prepare qualified media professionals through specialized programs in Egyptian Sign Language, digital media, content creation, photography, and media production. The initiative seeks to enhance opportunities for inclusion and community empowerment while aligning with the state's vision of building a more inclusive and sustainable society.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates of completion were awarded to the trainees in recognition of their efforts in acquiring communication skills with deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, reflecting the success of the partnership between Ain Shams University and the Coptic Orthodox Cultural Center in promoting the values of inclusion and social solidarity.