Sharjah Learning Disabilities Conference 2023 Addresses Key Challenges And Innovative Solutions

The Sharjah Center for Learning Disabilities (SCLD) has launched the fourth edition of its Learning Disabilities Conference. This two-day event, themed "Shared Challenges, Innovative Solutions," is held at the Sharjah Education Academy. It is under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Sharjah Districts Affairs Department, also attended.

The conference will delve into four key areas: assessment and diagnosis, scientific and technological research, support and empowerment, and educational interventions. Experts from various countries will present 20 scientific papers and lead four workshops. The aim is to explore innovative strategies for diagnosing and supporting students with learning disabilities globally. The initiative also seeks to enhance teacher training programs for those working with such students.

The event aims to exchange expertise in learning disabilities across local, Arab, and international spheres. By leveraging this knowledge, it hopes to improve services for individuals facing learning challenges. Organised in collaboration with the Sharjah Education Academy and Princess Tharwat College in Jordan, the conference has garnered support from various sponsors. The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the golden sponsor, while the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority serves as the media sponsor.

Silver sponsorship comes from entities like the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Centro Sharjah Hotel, and Air Arabia. Hanadi Al Suwaidi, Director of SCLD, attended the opening ceremony alongside esteemed guests and officials. A visual presentation titled "Invisible Challenges" highlighted unique difficulties faced by children with learning disabilities.

A significant agreement was signed between SCLD and an Egyptian research team led by Dr. Samira Bakr. This partnership aims to create a specialised assessment tool for children aged 3 to 5 years and 11 months who are at risk of learning disabilities. Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi emphasised that this conference aligns with SCLD's mission to empower those facing learning challenges.

Sheikha Jameela noted that these initiatives stem from leadership's dedication to providing top-quality education and care services for students with learning challenges. This aligns with UAE’s Vision 2071, focusing on future education as a core pillar.

Dr. Hanadi Al Suwaidi stated that this year's conference will cover crucial topics related to learning challenges. These include assessment methods, diagnosis techniques, modern technology integration in special education, support mechanisms, empowerment strategies, and educational initiatives.

Workshops and Discussions

The event features four workshops alongside 20 scientific papers discussing advancements in learning disabilities. On the first day, two discussion panels were held. The first panel focused on psychological and educational assessment frameworks for learners with disabilities through five scientific papers.

An experimental study examined standards for evaluative criteria during these discussions. The second panel showcased five papers on scientific research highlighting digital storytelling's role in improving speaking skills among students with disabilities.

Discussions also explored AI technologies' potential uses in diagnosing reading disorders. A workshop provided parents with essential psychological support skills needed for their children’s education journey.

The conference aims to offer innovative solutions by fostering local and international cooperation introducing modern systems supporting individuals with learning disabilities effectively enhancing quality educational therapeutic services ensuring a promising future model education system tailored specifically towards them.

With inputs from WAM