Her eyes spoke loud enough that it was needless for a sign-language translator to explain what she wanted to say. Her eyes sparkled and her smile glowed. Eman Abu Jazar, Creative Technology student, was one of the first class of students with hearing disabilities who joined IUG. “I can’t begin to describe how happy I am. I have always wanted to become a mathematics teacher. Once I am done with the diploma at IUG, I will definitely pursue my dream. I will achieve it. I have the desire and I have the will to design the plan of my own future.”
Mr. Abu Jazar elaborated on how IUG makes sure to improve the students with hearing disabilities’ performance through facilitating their access to the students’ halls. IUG provides the students with whatever school supplies they need, it equips and prepares the facilities they need for learning, brings them together with normal students, and holds different scientific and educational activities.
“To IUG,” Eman said, “Whether we are deaf or not, we are equal.”
Another student is Mohammed Mahani, Creative Technology student, said, “When I first started at IUG, my life was kind of hard and way different from my old one. However, when IUG offered us sign-language translators and facilitated our access, we felt more adjusted. All the doubts and fears that once were faded away.”
Mr. Mahani spoke about his future dreams of becoming a successful designer after graduation. “I want to start my own business one day. I thank IUG for having opened for me a door I once thought I’d never be able to reach – let alone open.”
He finally added, “We as students must work hard. Yes the door is open, but there is still more that needs to be done. We have to double our efforts and continue our education. Life beyond university is the real challenge and we need to be prepared.”
Teachers and Deaf Students
Ms. Siba Ouda, Teacher of Technical English in Sign Language, emphasized how active her students are. They work hard and are very interactive. “They come to class and you could see how eager they are to learn. Every letter in English has an equivalent symbol in sign language which makes it easier for me to teach and for them to learn.” After being asked on the techniques she uses, she said, “I use all kinds of modern educational tools such as movies, pictures, slide shows. My purpose is to convey the information. Whatever means that makes that possible, I seek to use.”
Ms. Suheir Al Hajjar, Teacher of Computer Skills for Deaf Students, said that teaching computer skills to deaf students is the same as teaching it to normal students. “What we do here is that we focus on improving the students’ skills in using different sorts of computer programs,” commented she.
Deaf Students and the University
Dr. Said Al Ghorra, Dean of Continuing Education and Community Service, said, “IUG was the first to open a diploma program for students with hearing disabilities across Palestine. This program allows its students to continue their higher education in the Gaza Strip. Dr. Al Ghorra highlighted the fact that the program includes two programs: Creative Technology and Computer and Smart Devices Maintenance.
“We believe in the fact that everyone deserves the chance to learn. We believe that those with hearing disabilities must not be deprived of education and work. IUG offers different services, facilitates the students’ access, provides different equipment; training workshops, and hires the best social, psychological and sign-language experts to design the curricula.
Furthermore, Mr. Hassan Abu Al Amrin, Coordinator of the Program of Students with Hearing Disabilities at IUG, said, “This project was implemented to involve the students with hearing disabilities in the academic life. We want to help them face any difficulties they might come across. They deserve a fair chance in education. The first class of students was granted scholarships – the fees were covered by the Qatari Red Crescent. The university also provided training curricula, sign language translators and free transportation service.
It is worth mentioning that IUG has recently received the second class of students with hearing disabilities. The number of female students is (56) students, while the number of male students is (19) students. The total number of the first class students is (120) female and male students.
