In Egypt, a young deaf girl sits in her classroom, watching her teacher and trying to grasp every detail through lip-reading. Her classmates raise their hands to answer questions, and she knows the answers too. However, she needs a fair chance and an environment that understands her language and needs. Deaf girls have dreams, aspirations, and ambitions, just like their hearing peers. They seek education, knowledge, acceptance, and participation.
Education is not just about obtaining a certificate; it's a path to independence, self-discovery, and building one's personality. For deaf girls, education begins with early detection, rehabilitation, and developing communication skills. The Egyptian Ministry of Social Solidarity provides services to develop linguistic skills and rehabilitation for the deaf and hard of hearing through specialized centers. Additionally, efforts have been made to support students in various stages of education, including providing sign language interpreters in some Egyptian universities.
Accessibility is not a luxury but a basic requirement for independence and participation. Deaf girls need access to information, health and social services, and interaction with various institutions. They require training and guidance, tools, and a suitable work environment. The Ministry of Social Solidarity, in cooperation with various entities and institutions, supports economic empowerment programs for people with disabilities through training, small and micro-projects, and productive families.
The media plays a vital role in empowering deaf girls by changing the way society perceives them. The media should focus on deaf girls as they learn, work, and create, providing real-life examples of outstanding students, artists, athletes, programmers, and entrepreneurs. Using sign language, translation, and accessibility in media content can expand the audience and make deaf girls part of the community.
It's essential to change the way deaf girls are portrayed in society. They should be seen as girls with dreams and aspirations, not just as individuals facing challenges. Egyptian society is expected to provide equal opportunities for participation in cultural, sports, social, and professional activities and treat them as an integral part of society.
In Egypt, efforts to support people who are deaf or hard of hearing involve various state institutions, civil society, and specialized entities. The National Council for Persons with Disabilities is a key national institution that supports the rights of people with disabilities and promotes their participation in society.
The issue of deaf girls is not unique to Egypt but a broader Arab concern that requires more cooperation and exchange of experiences. Arab countries have diverse experiences in education, rehabilitation, assistive technology, and economic empowerment that can be utilized to develop joint programs.
Key points
- Deaf girls in Egypt require equal opportunities, accessible education, and economic independence to empower them and enable their participation in society.
