Inclusive Universities & SDGs

On September 30 and October 1, 2024, the DAAD Regional Office Cairo, in collaboration with Galala University and TU Dresden, hosted a two-day workshop titled “Inclusive Universities and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” The event was part of the COSIMENA project.

The workshop focuses on the role of inclusive universities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The workshop aims to bring together representatives from public and private universities, governmental and non-governmental organizations, and funding bodies in Egypt.

Organizing talks by key speakers, a panel discussion, and a round table each day, the workshop addressed two key topics: creating inclusive universities free of structural, digital, financial, and cultural barriers, and exploring how inclusive universities can enhance Egypt’s capability to meet the SDGs directly targeting PWD, namely Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequalities, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals.

We explored key topics like inclusive universities and international funding, focusing on the challenges faced by students with disabilities in higher education. Critical areas such as campus accessibility, accessible learning materials, assistive technology awareness, and exam accommodations were central to our discussions.

The workshop will feature panel discussions and round tables covering key topics such as:

Accessibility on Campus through Architectural Design and Urban Settings

Admission of Students with Disabilities in Universities

Removing Barriers in the Educational System

Funding Programs for Inclusive Universities

Inclusive Universities and Their Role in Achieving SDGs

There were 36 participants from different backgrounds and institutions in Egypt and abroad. There were 5 panel discussions covering diverse topics related to inclusive universities.

During our workshop activities there was active participants 37 students from USAID – GU program who are studying, including 27 students with disabilities the highest number placed at a university in the USAID program’s Cohort One and Two.

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Dina Oraibi for her unwavering efforts as Equal Opportunity Manager at Galala University, ensuring comprehensive support for students with disabilities at Galala. Galala has been exceptional in accommodating both the academic and non-academic needs of these students and their ongoing support through the Equal Opportunity Unit is highly appreciated.

The recommendations from the workshop focus on fostering inclusive and accessible universities. Key actions include improving physical infrastructure and digital accessibility, embedding inclusive design in architectural training, and building partnerships with international universities, NGOs, and funding organizations to support inclusive initiatives.

Awareness campaigns, faculty training, and annual workshops are essential for promoting inclusion and equipping staff to support students with disabilities. Establishing equal opportunity units, standardizing admissions, and tracking progress on SDGs will institutionalize inclusive practices.

Additionally, universities should enhance student feedback mechanisms, support services, and mentorship networks, while collaborating with corporations and government entities to create job opportunities and entrepreneurship programs for students with disabilities.

Speakers:

Dr. Mina Michel
Lecturer at Architecture Field at GU
Dr. Dina Oraibi
Dean of Media Production and Head of Equal Opportunity Unit at Galala University
Dr. Maged Zagow
Director of Architectural Design and Digital Architecture Program at GU
Prof Gesine Marquardt
Liaison Officer for Students with Disabilities and Chronic Disease, and Professor of Social and Health Care Buildings and Design, Dresden University of Technology (TUD)
Dr Cornelia Hähne
Director of the Directorate of University Culture, Dresden University of Technology (TUD)
Dr Stefanie Dreiack
Coordinator for Inclusive Universities, Coordination Office for Equal Opportunities, Saxony, Universität Leipzig