Advancing Deaf Education in Morocco: Challenges and the Call for International Support
Streaming Media
Location
Gallaudet University - JSAC Multipurpose Room
Start Date
2-3-2024 4:00 PM
End Date
2-3-2024 4:30 PM
Description
Morocco faces significant challenges in providing quality educational opportunities to the deaf community, which has a profound impact on their lives. Deaf Moroccans face several barriers, including limited access to sign language interpretation, educational barriers leading to social exclusion, constrained employment opportunities, and a general lack of accommodations in public services. Additionally, communication gaps persist, creating a dire need for greater understanding and inclusivity within Moroccan society. The majority of schools dedicated to educating the deaf are run by voluntary organizations, indicating the need for more structured and government-regulated educational frameworks. As an advocate and educator who has transitioned from hearing to deaf, I have personally witnessed these challenges. My goal is to use my life journey to illustrates the resilience and determination that is prevalent among the deaf community in Morocco. At the STEM Sign Language Symposium, I intend to present the acute realities of deaf education in Morocco, seeking to galvanize international support and collaboration. By working together, we can develop and document an official sign language for use at pre college level, establish regulated STEM educational sign Language practices, and create inclusive public STEM Sign Language services. My goal is to secure commitments from stakeholders that will lead to tangible and positive changes, fostering an environment where the deaf can receive quality education and integrate more fully into Moroccan society. This symposium serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to join forces in advancing the quality of life for the deaf in Morocco. I believe that through constructive dialogue and collaboration, we can overcome these challenges and create a more inclusive society for everyone.
Recommended Citation
Benaouda, Oumaima, "Advancing Deaf Education in Morocco: Challenges and the Call for International Support" (2024). Global Year of STEM Sign Language. 14.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/global_STEM_signlanguage/STEM_signlanguagesummit/day_1/14
Advancing Deaf Education in Morocco: Challenges and the Call for International Support
Gallaudet University - JSAC Multipurpose Room
Morocco faces significant challenges in providing quality educational opportunities to the deaf community, which has a profound impact on their lives. Deaf Moroccans face several barriers, including limited access to sign language interpretation, educational barriers leading to social exclusion, constrained employment opportunities, and a general lack of accommodations in public services. Additionally, communication gaps persist, creating a dire need for greater understanding and inclusivity within Moroccan society. The majority of schools dedicated to educating the deaf are run by voluntary organizations, indicating the need for more structured and government-regulated educational frameworks. As an advocate and educator who has transitioned from hearing to deaf, I have personally witnessed these challenges. My goal is to use my life journey to illustrates the resilience and determination that is prevalent among the deaf community in Morocco. At the STEM Sign Language Symposium, I intend to present the acute realities of deaf education in Morocco, seeking to galvanize international support and collaboration. By working together, we can develop and document an official sign language for use at pre college level, establish regulated STEM educational sign Language practices, and create inclusive public STEM Sign Language services. My goal is to secure commitments from stakeholders that will lead to tangible and positive changes, fostering an environment where the deaf can receive quality education and integrate more fully into Moroccan society. This symposium serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to join forces in advancing the quality of life for the deaf in Morocco. I believe that through constructive dialogue and collaboration, we can overcome these challenges and create a more inclusive society for everyone.
