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About the Equal Opportunities Unit

The Role of the Equal Opportunities Unit at Galala University

Promoting Inclusion and Empowerment

Galala University (GU) is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for its students. As a student-centric community, GU strives to provide opportunities for students to engage, connect, and grow. Our goal is to offer an outstanding and sustainable academic and non-academic experience for all students.

The Equal Opportunity Unit (EOU) plays a pivotal role in this mission by providing tailored support to students with disabilities, ensuring their academic success, social integration, and personal growth. Through a variety of programs and activities, the EOU has empowered 83 students with disabilities, creating a campus culture that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and mutual respect.

The unit implements various Accommodation Plans to cater to the needs of students with disabilities and ensure their inclusion in GU’s diverse programs.

Established in April 2020, the Equal Opportunities Unit (EOU) began its work through a collaborative agreement between Galala University and the National Council for Women. This partnership aims to strengthen cooperation between the university and the Council, supporting women’s issues in areas such as family, work, and education. The unit’s objectives include empowering women in various fields, promoting their role in Egyptian society, resolving their problems, and providing psychological support.

The unit has implemented inclusive services for students with special abilities across all faculties. A team of technical and administrative specialists facilitates educational services and ensures that these students receive the necessary accommodations approved by international and national universities.

The unit is committed to empowering all members of the university community. It assists women by helping them overcome professional and family challenges, providing legal and psychological consultations, and ensuring they receive their rights and fulfill their responsibilities efficiently.

Our Vision

To lead in establishing the principle of Equal Opportunities among students, faculty members, and employees of Galala University by developing their skills, knowledge, and practical abilities.

Our Mission

To foster a culture of integrating the principle of Equal Opportunities into the University’s plans and stages, providing the GU community with equal chances to succeed by improving the academic and non-academic environment.

Our Values

  • Justice and equality, promoting equal opportunities.
  • Sustainable development and continuous organizational improvement.
  • Leadership, creativity, participation, and institutional excellence.
  • Teamwork and collaboration.
  • Transparency and credibility.

We value your communication. For inquiries, please contact the Equal Opportunities Unit at the following email address: Sneo@Gu.edu.eg

Our Goals

  • Support people with disabilities (People of Determination) by enabling their integration into the university community, equipping them with skills for the job market, and ensuring their rights in all aspects of life.
  • Support the development of capabilities and skills to provide equal opportunities for success to students, faculty members, and employees of Galala University.
  • Integrate the perspective of Equal Opportunities into the university's preparation, planning, follow-up, and evaluation processes, aligning them with national plans.
  • Foster communication and collaboration between the National Council for Women, specialized councils, organizations, and the Equal Opportunities Unit.
  • Collaborate with local and international bodies dedicated to Equal Opportunities, working towards the goals of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030.
  • Enhance the implementation of the National Strategy for the Empowerment of Egyptian Women 2030.

Our Services and Activities

The Equal Opportunities Unit at Galala University is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and fair academic and work environment for all members of our community. The unit provides a wide range of services and activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, including awareness campaigns, training workshops, counseling, and advocacy initiatives. It also works to ensure equal access to educational and professional opportunities, supports students and staff from underrepresented groups, and addresses challenges related to gender, disability, and social equity. Through its programs, the unit actively contributes to building a university culture rooted in respect, fairness, and equal opportunity for all.

Comprehensive Support Services for an Inclusive Campus

Registration Assistance: Smooth Transition from Day One

Starting university can be overwhelming, especially for students with disabilities. Our dedicated registration assistance program ensures a seamless onboarding process. From academic advising tailored to individual needs to help with administrative paperwork, we remove barriers so students can focus on their education.

 A student with disability receives one-on-one guidance to select courses with accessible materials, while our team coordinates with faculty to provide necessary accommodations.

Our team provides personalized support from the very beginning—from academic advising tailored to each student’s individual needs, to help with administrative paperwork and coordination with various university departments. We aim to remove barriers so that students can focus on their academic and personal growth.

 A student with visual impairment receives one-on-one support to select courses that offer accessible materials. In coordination with faculty, the team ensures that all necessary accommodation is in place.

Beyond course selection, we also provide:

  • Assistance with housing and transportation arrangements, ensuring that students are placed in accessible dormitories and provided with mobility support.
  • Coordination with faculty and staff to guarantee a unified support system across all departments.
  • Braille printing of course materials to support students with visual impairments in their studies.
  • Tailored exam accommodation, including dedicated exam rooms and modified test formats to meet specific needs.
  • Mathematics is often considered a challenging subject, especially for students with visual impairments or other disabilities. Graphs, geometric shapes, and complex calculations can pose significant obstacles to their learning. Recognizing this issue, our unit has taken a proactive step by providing specialized teachers to assist these students in understanding mathematical concepts, ensuring they receive the support they need to succeed.
  • The initiative has been met with overwhelming positivity from the students, who have expressed great enthusiasm and appreciation for the program. The presence of dedicated teachers who adapt teaching methods to suit their needs has made a remarkable difference. By using tactile tools, audio explanations, and customized learning techniques, these educators have transformed abstract mathematical concepts into accessible and engaging lessons.
  • The impact of this support extends beyond just improved grades, it has boosted students’ confidence and motivation. Many who once struggled with math are now demonstrating remarkable progress, proving that with the right guidance, every student can excel. This success reflects the importance of inclusive education and tailored teaching approaches in overcoming learning barriers.
  • Moving forward, we aim to expand this initiative, ensuring that all students, regardless of their physical challenges, have equal opportunities to thrive academically. Education should be inclusive, adaptive, and empowering—and with the right support, no student should be left behind.
  • This program is not just about teaching math; it’s about unlocking potential, fostering independence, and creating a brighter future for every learner.

This comprehensive support system ensures that students of determination feel confident, included, and empowered starting from their very first day at Galala University.

Peer Mentorship: Building a Supportive Community

No student should navigate university life alone.
Our peer mentorship program pairs new students with disabilities with experienced peers who provide academic guidance, social integration, and emotional support.

A first-year student with mobility challenges is matched with a senior mentor who helps them navigate campus, shares study tips, and introduces them to student clubs, ensuring a smooth transition into university life.

Study Groups for Enhanced Learning

Collaborative learning is key to success. The EOU organizes inclusive study groups where students with and without disabilities work together, promoting teamwork and mutual understanding.

A student with hearing impairment joins a study group where notes are shared in real-time using assistive technology, ensuring they don’t miss any critical discussions.

Links for course registration and requiring support:

Inclusion and Support for Students with Disabilities

A Culture of Inclusion: Why It Matters

By prioritizing accessibility and support, Galala University is not just complying with inclusion standards—we are setting the benchmark. Our initiatives ensure that students with disabilities are not just accommodated but empowered to excel.

Discover more about our initiatives and how we can support you—because at Galala, everyone belongs.

The Equal Opportunity Unit proudly leads the “For a supportive community” initiative, one of the first of its kind in Egypt, aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities through the active participation of universities and students.

This pioneering initiative seeks to raise awareness and promote inclusion for people of disabilty by equipping faculty members, administrative staff, and students with the tools, training, and empathy needed to provide emotional, psychological, and material support. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we aspire to foster a deeply connected and inclusive university community.

Vision and Goals

The “For a supportive community” initiative believes that true inclusion happens when communities work together. Our goals include:

  1. Positioning Galala University as a central hub for inclusive community development.
  2. Fostering collaboration among Egyptian universities to amplify the impact of inclusive practices nationwide.
  3. Spreading awareness about the various types of disabilities and effective support strategies.
  4. Accrediting and training individuals to provide specialized assistance and educational planning.
  5. Preparing students, staff, and faculty to engage effectively and compassionately with people of determination.
 
Training and Workshops

The initiative provides a comprehensive series of training and workshops designed to build inclusive capacity across all levels of the university. These include:

  • Awareness sessions on the types of disabilities and methods of support.
  • Interpersonal skills training for communicating with and supporting people of determination.
  • Workshops on developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to students’ specific needs.
  • Introduction to occupational and sensory therapy, giving practical techniques for classroom and campus settings.
  • Peer programs and social support networks, where students can actively support their colleagues.
  • Training for inclusive exam arrangements, ensuring fair assessments for students with disabilities.
  • Interactive and vocational training activities, helping students gain life and career skills.
Events and Milestones

Since its inception in December 2020, the initiative has led numerous impactful events and activities:

  • Launching the Peer Support Program partnership with “Esma3ona Foundation” during the first celebration of people of determination at the university.
  • Awareness campaigns addressing misconceptions about disabilities, their causes, and treatment, with a focus on building empathy and knowledge.
  • Workshops like “A Step Ahead”, delivered by Dr. Mina Mikhail, focusing on supporting students with visual impairments.
  • Celebration of “Braille is the Eye of Life”, honoring visually impaired students and recognizing inspiring figures from the community, including the participation of Al Noor and Al Amal Institute’s girls’ orchestra.
  • International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrations, which include inclusive student activities, sports, and social events designed for and with students with disabilities.
  • Educational card printing, showcasing major disabilities, correcting common myths, and highlighting Egyptian heroes with disabilities who’ve achieved national and international success.
  • Collaborating with the student activity office to select adaptive games suitable for students with special abilities.
  • Annual excellence awards, celebrating high-achieving students with disabilities for their perseverance and outstanding performance during the academic year.
Academic Support and Beyond

While academic assistance remains a cornerstone of the EOU’s services, the unit goes beyond the classroom to promote holistic development. Recognizing that education extends beyond textbooks, the EOU encourages students with disabilities to engage in extracurricular activities that enhance their talents, build confidence, and foster camaraderie among peers.

Showcasing Talent: Artistic and Cultural Participation

One of the most inspiring initiatives led by the EOU is the inclusion of students with disabilities in artistic and cultural events. For instance:

Blind students with remarkable artistic talents have participated in university celebrations, such as the Ramadan Iftar Gathering, where they performed songs, recited religious hymns, and played several musical instruments.

Their performance at the Physical Therapy Day event, themed “Disability is Not Inability,” left a lasting impression, proving that talent knows no barriers.

In collaboration with the Faculty of Art & Design, students with disabilities took part in a three-day pottery workshop, guided by a visiting team from Argentina. Their enthusiasm and creativity were highly praised, demonstrating their ability to excel in hands-on artistic activities.

In collaboration with the Faculty of Art & Design, students with disabilities took part in a three-day pottery workshop, guided by a visiting team from Argentina. Their enthusiasm and creativity were highly praised, demonstrating their ability to excel in hands-on artistic activities.

Encouraging Physical Fitness and Sports

The EOU also emphasizes the importance of physical well-being by facilitating access to sports and fitness programs. Examples include:

  • University Gym Activities: Students have been encouraged to use the campus gym, promoting health and endurance.
  • Martial Arts Training: Some students participated in karate sessions, enhancing their physical coordination and self-discipline.
Workshops by the Equal Opportunity Unit at Galala University

Empowering Students Through Skills Development

At Galala University, the Equal Opportunity Unit (EOU) is dedicated to ensuring that all students, including those with disabilities, have the tools and opportunities to succeed—not just academically, but also in developing essential life and career skills. Through strategic partnerships and specialized workshops, the EOU empowers students with disabilities to build confidence, independence, and professional readiness.

Entrepreneurship and Business Leadership Workshop

In collaboration with SAAED Foundation, the EOU organized a three-day workshop on Entrepreneurship and Business Management, designed to equip students with the skills needed to turn ideas into viable projects.

  • Soft Skills & Communication Training: Visually impaired students were trained in effective communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, helping them articulate their ideas clearly and work collaboratively.
  • Techniques for identifying market needs and developing entrepreneurial solutions
  • Methods to transform abstract ideas into structured business models
  • Students learned how to develop business concepts, create project plans, and pitch their ideas—essential skills for future entrepreneurs.

Employment and Career Opportunities

As part of our long-term vision, the initiative has introduced a Job and Skills Fair for individuals with disabilities. This fair serves as a platform for:

  • Skill development workshops that enhance employability.
  • Networking with potential employers is committed to inclusive hiring.
  • Empowering individuals to showcase their talents and express their aspirations in a supportive environment.
Galala University's Community Initiatives

Fostering Belonging Through Shared Traditions

At Galala University, we believe that education extends beyond academics—it is about building a supportive community where every student feels valued, included, and empowered. The Equal Opportunity Unit (EOU) has spearheaded initiatives that celebrate shared traditions, promote inclusion, and nurture a sense of belonging among all students, particularly those with disabilities. The event hosted 122 students, including those with disabilities, creating an atmosphere of warmth, solidarity, and shared faith.

  • The iftar was designed to be fully accessible, ensuring that students with mobility or sensory impairments could participate comfortably. Volunteers assisted with navigation, and meals were arranged to accommodate different needs.
  • The evening featured inspiring performances by students with disabilities, including singing by visually impaired students and traditional Nasheed performances, showcasing their talents and enriching the spiritual experience for all.

Employment and Career Opportunities

As part of our long-term vision, the initiative has introduced a Job and Skills Fair for individuals with disabilities. This fair serves as a platform for:

  • Skill development workshops that enhance employability.
  • Networking with potential employers is committed to inclusive hiring.
  • Empowering individuals to showcase their talents and express their aspirations in a supportive environment.

Celebrating Inclusion

Galala University’s World Disability Day Events

At Galala University, we believe that true progress is measured by how we uplift every member of our community. In line with this vision, the Equal Opportunity Unit (EOU) organized two inspiring events to celebrate World Disability Day, reinforcing our commitment to inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable integration for students with disabilities.

“Together Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Integration” – A Day of Awareness and Celebration

Under the patronage of Prof. Mohamed El-Shinawi, President of Galala University, the EOU hosted a dynamic event under the theme “Together Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Integration.” The celebration brought together students with disabilities, volunteers, faculty members, and staff to foster awareness, solidarity, and shared learning.

Highlights of the Event
  • Interactive Workshops: Students participated in educational sessions on life skills, assistive technologies, and overcoming daily challenges, equipping them with practical tools for success.
  • Inspiring Panel Discussions: Students with disabilities shared their personal success stories, motivating peers and demonstrating that determination conquers barriers.
  • Creative & Recreational Activities: Team-building games, art competitions, and group performances showcased the diverse talents of participants, fostering camaraderie and joy.
A Healthcare Sector Initiative

"Disability is Not Inability"

In collaboration with the Faculty of Physical Therapy, Pharmacy, Nursing, and Applied Health Sciences, the university’s Healthcare Sector hosted a second event under the slogan “Disability is Not Inability.” Attended by deans, faculty, and medical students, the celebration highlighted the vital role of people with disabilities in society and the advancements in medical support technologies.

Student Talent Showcase
Attendees were moved by musical performances, poetry recitals, and artistic displays from students with disabilities, proving that talent knows no limits.

Tech for Inclusion
Demonstrations of cutting-edge assistive medical technologies aligned with Egypt’s national strategy for disability inclusion.