SDG 10.6.9
Disability Access Scheme
A Recreational Day organized for the Special Needs Children of the Azhar Al Harak Nursery
As part of the initiatives of Community Engagement (CE) Office and in celebration of Gergaoon, a special candy distribution day which is part of the holy month of Ramadan, ASU organized a recreational day for the special needs children of Azhar Al Harak Nursery on Saturday, 28th March 2024. A number of academic and administrative staff, students and the local community participated in this activity.
Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5N8I1ds5IR/?igsh=enplZ2Y0YWd2ZDJl
Parliamentary Forum for “People of Determination” 2023
The University participated in the opening of the Parliamentary Forum for “People of Determination” 2023, where 12 working papers were presented alongside inspiring success stories. This forum aims to promote inclusivity and empower individuals with disabilities, showcasing innovative practices and initiatives that support their needs. The university’s involvement highlights its commitment to advocacy and social responsibility, reinforcing the importance of creating an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. By engaging in this forum, the university contributes to the ongoing dialogue around accessibility and support for people of determination, fostering a culture of understanding and collaboration.
Participated in the ‘Let’s Leave a Trace’ March in October 2023
The university participated in the walking march for the “Let’s Leave a Trace” event, which supports cancer fighters. Organized by “Adelena Events” at the Bahraini Women’s Memorial “Athar,” this initiative is part of the broader “Athar of the Rosary” campaign launched by the General Secretariat of the Supreme Council for Women. The university’s involvement underscores its commitment to community service and aligns with the activities organized by the Community Service Office to fulfill the university’s mission and goals. By participating in this meaningful event, the university aims to raise awareness and show solidarity with those affected by cancer, reinforcing its dedication to social responsibility and compassionate engagement.
Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CzJBbYAMtKe/?igsh=MWs4ODNpMGp4b3ppcw%3D%3D
Participated in the ‘Walking with the Blind’ March in October 2023
ASU took part in the ‘Walking with the Blind’ march organized by the Friendship Society for the Blind on Saturday, October 14, 2023, in the Seef area of Water Garden City. This event, held under the slogan “Society’s Support for the Blind… Our Duty,” reflects the university’s commitment to social responsibility, community engagement, health and well-being. The participation highlights the initiatives organized by the Community Service Office to align with ASU’s mission and strategic goals. By joining this important cause, ASU aims to raise awareness and foster inclusivity, demonstrating that supporting individuals with visual impairments is a collective responsibility that enriches society as a whole.
Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CyjMx6dMMtg/?igsh=aWhqaW5kNTE0cm84&img_index=6
Visiting Down Syndrome Care Center
Coordinated by the Community Engagement Office, ASU organized a visit on Thursday, 23rd February 2024, to the Down Syndrome Care Center and with the participation of a large number of the university’s academic and administrative staff. During the visit, the visitors learned about the center’s facilities and activities. Gifts were distributed to residents, and flowers were presented to the center’s workers.
Instagram post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4fnxcltqZq/?igsh=MWdiOTdybjNsZmhicA%3D%3D&img_index=1
ASU Student ‘Sheikha Al-Zayed’ – 2nd place winner at the RHF Forum
University Student Sheikha Al-Zayed and her team participated in the Royal Charity Organization for Humanitarian Works forum, securing second place for their initiative. Their project, an application called “I Hand,” is designed to support individuals with special needs. The “I Hand” application aims to provide equal opportunities and support for individuals with special needs, fostering an inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
Mental Health Events and Activities
In addition to the Counselling Office and support services for disabled students, ASU also offers a range of extracurricular activities that promote physical and mental health. The University also organizes events and activities that promote community building, stress relief, and mental well-being. In conclusion, the University places a high priority on student mental health and well-being. The University recognizes that mental health issues can have a significant impact on students’ academic performance and personal lives and seeks to provide support and resources to help students overcome these challenges. Mental Health and supporting disability examples can be found on the University Instagram account:
- Pregnant Woman and the Family Stability
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5P7OnCsdKk/?igsh=YThvbW05ZnN4Mjd1
- Woman Health
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5P7d0WMedN/?igsh=eGF4Ymo3b24ycDFl
- Mental Health during Exam Period
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5QuezyNMQY/?igsh=dmM0aml5b3d0ZWw4
- Postpartum Mental Health
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5cy7VnMEYO/?igsh=MXhveHNqNGlodHNiMQ%3D%3D
Mental Health and supporting disability:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CbZ1Ne1s4Ah/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BTRNGMZFc84/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsdiTWJNhVB/
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs827hAsneS/
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cs6Jg6VNHNX/
University Activities and Awareness Programmes for People with Disabilities
Applied Science University Participated in “Walking with the Blind” March
On Saturday, 20 October 2018, Applied Science University was represented by a Group of its Staff and Students participated in “Walking with the Blind” March, which was held under the patronage of HE Sheikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate; and organized by Friendship Society of the Blind with the support of Applied Science University under the theme “The Society Support for the Blind … It is our Duty.” On the occasion of the International Day of the white stick near AlFateh Coast. ASU and many civil society organisations, citizens, and residents participated in the walking march. The Governor of the Capital Governorate assured that the support of the community for people with special needs has an essential role in raising the level of determination and will to them to achieve their aspirations, explaining that the helpless person is incapable of the mind not the body; noting that the Capital Governorate pays great attention to those with special needs and activates their role and integration into society, in order to activate the role of community partnership in the service of society and citizens and residents alike. President of Friendship Society of the Blind Mr Hussein Al-Halibi thanked the Governor of the Capital Governorate for his continuous support to the society over many years, he rganized on the significant support of ASU and the participation of the University Staff and Students in this event, and he also thanked the Ministries, the Supporting Bodies and the Civil Society Organisations for their participation. He pointed out that the day of the white stick urges the support of the blind humanely and socially. The participation of ASU staff and Students is a continuous effort to support people with special needs and community as it is part of the activity series in community engagement.
Participating in “Walking with the Blind” March 2019
Under the patronage of HE Shaikh Hisham bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, Governor of the Capital Governorate; and as a part of the Community Engagement Office at Applied Science University initiatives, ASU presented by Professor Ghassan Aouad the President and a large number of academic and administrative staff, students, and alumni; participated in “Walking with the Blind” March 2019, which Friendship Society of the Blind organised under the Theme “The Society Support for the Blind … It is our Duty.” On the occasion of the International Day of the white stick. The march was held on October 12th, 2019 near AlFateh Coast. ASU participation came to fulfil its vision and mission to support the Bahraini society in all its segments. The University attaches great importance to serving the community by strengthening its services to support humanitarian initiatives in various fields and with all categories, especially those with special needs. It is worth mentioning that the University is keen to participate in events that serve the community and enrich volunteer work at various levels. It organized many events that reinforce its role in engaging with the community by hosting events highlighting the needs of special needs.
A Special Day for Down Syndrome Care Center at Applied Science University
On the occasion of the Kingdom’s 47th Glorious National Day and 19th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne, and as part of Community Engagement Office at Applied Science University initiatives in supporting the community; the University received Down Syndrome Care Center and prepared a special day for them by rganized number of activities for them. ASU Academic and Administrative Staff, and Students participated in the activities that were rganized to the visitors such as drawing, playing games, face painting, doing magic with the magician, singing, dancing, and distributing gifts to the visitors. At the beginning of the day, the visitors had a warm welcome from the University. After that, the activities started by playing the National Anthem and distributing Kingdom of Bahrain flags to the visitors, then singings songs and poetries about the occasion of the Kingdom’s 47th Glorious National Day and 19th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Accession to the Throne. The visitors had a fantastic time with the different activities, and they were pleased, they enjoyed the magic tricks provided by the magician, painting on pottery, face painting, participating in competitions, singing, dancing, and getting gifts. Also, a Number of Public Figures and Artists has been invited to participate in the activities of the event. At the end of the visit that was on Wednesday, 12 December 2018, Down Syndrome Care Center management thanked Applied Science University for the memorable day and for supporting special needs and the community in general.
Applied Science University Celebration on the Occasion of the International Day of Awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder “You Are Not Alone”
Under the Patronage of His Excellency Mr Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of Shura Council, and as a part of Community Engagement Office at Applied Science University Initiatives; the International Organization for Child Protection in collaboration with Applied Science University rganized “You Are Not Alone” celebration. The celebration was held on the occasion of the International Day of Awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder with the presence of His Excellency Mr Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of Shura Council, and Prof Ghassan Fouad Aouad, President of Applied Science University on Saturday, 6 April 2019.The Ceremony was opened by Prof Ghassan Fouad Aouad speech. In his speech, Prof Ghassan welcomed and thanked His Excellency Mr Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of Shura Council for patronage the celebration, and thanked the Regional Office of the International Organization for Child Protection in the Kingdom of Bahrain and all participants, organisations and supporters. “Our goal of this event is to raise awareness of autism among all groups of society and to identify, even in a simple way, the suffering of children or their dependents, Prof Ghassan said. Prof Ghassan also thanked the Ministry of Education for providing opportunities to integrate autistic children in public schools in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The Ceremony also included honouring the parents and the participating and supporting parties, followed by a play presented by the students of ASU in cooperation with the students of Rifaa Al Sharqi School for Boys under the title “Do you want me?” The University also presented a video called “My Story”, which recounted the story of a child with autism and how parents and society deal with its situation. The Ceremony ended with the participation of the child Nasser Habeel, which it was a sports show, and the graduate student Hajar Al-Manaa by presenting an educational entertainment website for children with autism. ASU also hosted kids from Autism centres and rganized a number of activities and games for them. Social and Health Centres and Participants from the local community participated in the exhibition, that was held during the Ceremony. A group of ASU students also participated in the exhibition by presenting artworks related to Autism. At the end of the celebration, Prof Ghassan and Mr Salman Al-Subaie Manager of Regional Office of the International Organization for Child Protection in the Kingdom of Bahrain honoured all the participating bodies and the voluntary rganizednal committees, which contributed to the success of the event.