The Ministry of Social Solidarity in Egypt celebrated World Hearing Day, reaffirming its commitment to empowering individuals with hearing disabilities. This day is an opportunity for the ministry to highlight its ongoing efforts in ensuring that people with hearing impairments have equal access to opportunities in education, employment, and social integration.
Key Initiatives to Support the Hearing Impaired
Dr. Maya Morsi, Minister of Social Solidarity, received an extensive report from the Central Administration for the Affairs of People with Disabilities, headed by Mr. Khalil Mohamed. The report shed light on numerous initiatives aimed at improving the lives of individuals with hearing impairments. These include:
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention: The Ministry has launched early hearing screening in nursery schools for children under the age of four. This initiative is carried out in collaboration with organizations like “Basira” and other civil society groups, ensuring that children with hearing issues are identified at an early stage.
- Unified Rehabilitation and Educational Programs: The ministry has implemented Egypt’s first accredited unified rehabilitation and educational program for children with hearing impairments who use hearing aids or cochlear implants. This program focuses on developing language and speech skills, preparing these children for inclusive education systems.
- Sign Language Interpreters in Universities: To further integrate individuals with hearing disabilities into higher education, the Ministry has taken steps to cover the costs of sign language interpreters in public universities, particularly in specialized faculties like those in teacher training.
Inclusive Education and Workforce Integration
In alignment with its commitment to inclusivity, the Ministry is also addressing the challenges faced by students with hearing impairments in the education system:
- Support for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students: The Ministry ensures that deaf and hard-of-hearing students have access to sign language interpreters during their studies. It covers interpreter fees and facilitates communication between students and faculty members.
- Career Readiness Programs: The Ministry offers job readiness training and career counseling for individuals with hearing impairments, including opportunities for vocational training in fields such as printing, carpentry, leatherwork, and carpet weaving. These initiatives are designed to help individuals with hearing disabilities live independently and contribute to Egypt’s economy.
- Social Protection and Financial Support: Individuals with hearing impairments are eligible for the government’s social protection programs, such as “Karama,” which provides financial assistance to low-income families. Additionally, the Ministry offers grants to support those with hearing impairments in accessing appropriate medical and assistive devices, such as hearing aids and cochlear implant maintenance.
Promoting Social Inclusion and Digital Innovation
The Ministry is also focused on reducing social isolation and improving the mobility of people with hearing disabilities:
- Accessible Transportation: In partnership with the Ministry of Transport, the government has made significant strides in enhancing the accessibility of public transport. Fourteen train stations and thirty-five metro stations now comply with accessibility codes, making it easier for individuals with hearing disabilities to move around the city.
- “Ahsan Saheb” Initiative: Launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Alliance for Civil Development Action, this initiative aims to reduce social isolation for people with disabilities by promoting volunteerism and cultural participation. Volunteers are working in 24 governorates to create more inclusive communities.
- Digital Platforms for Accessibility: The Ministry is supporting the “Wasl” digital app, created by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, to improve access to services for people with hearing disabilities. This app facilitates better communication and service access, empowering individuals to navigate societal barriers with ease.
Commitment to Empowerment and Equality
The Ministry of Social Solidarity continues to work towards building a more inclusive society for individuals with hearing impairments, ensuring that they have the same opportunities to participate in social, economic, and cultural life. The government’s continued efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the quality of life for all people with disabilities in Egypt.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative programs, Egypt is striving to create a society that values every individual’s contribution, regardless of their hearing abilities. As the world marks World Hearing Day, Egypt’s initiatives stand as a testament to the nation’s dedication to social justice and inclusion.
The Ministry calls upon all sectors of society to join in supporting these efforts, fostering an environment of inclusion, equal opportunity, and respect for everyone.
