The American University in Cairo hosted its first “disability conference” on Wednesday to create an inclusive society for those with disabilities by shifting focus to removing barriers in education settings and promoting effective communication to raise awareness about the needs of the disabled. Hosted by the university’s Office of Student Support, the conference attendees included representatives from the National Council of Disability Affairs (NCDA) and the Egyptian parliament, as well as academics, university professors and nongovernmental organizations whose work revolves around Egypt’s disabled community. The conference comprised several different panels tackling issues such as autism with guest speakers, including Dr. Heba Hagrass, an Egyptian Member of Parliament and a board member at the National Council for Disability Affairs, to discuss each topic. “We want to bring in a positive change in educational institutions and cultivate the sense of responsibility towards creating a supportive environment for students with disabilities,” said Dr. Ola Morsy, Director of the Office of Student Support. “This will hopefully help students overcome challenges faced in society, including educational challenges. Students with special abilities have the right to take full opportunity of the best student life experience possible.” AUC’s Vice…
AUC Hosts First ‘Disability Conference’ to Create Inclusive Society in Egypt
April 6, 2016
