By Zayed Alzyoud
The University of Jordan (UJ) School of Rehabilitation Sciences hosted an event marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), reaffirming its commitment to inclusion, equal access to education, and meaningful community participation.
Held under the United Nations 2025 theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” the event highlighted the role of inclusive approaches in advancing sustainable social development.
The programme brought together deans, faculty members, administrative staff, and students. Students with disabilities played an active role throughout the event, contributing to hosting, organisation, and presentations, reflecting a culture of partnership and empowerment.
In opening remarks, Dean of the School of Rehabilitation Sciences Prof. Lara Sultan Al-Khlaifat said the observance reflects UJ’s ongoing commitment to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities and strengthening their participation in society. She noted that inclusion is advanced through academic programmes, applied research, accessibility initiatives, and partnerships with local community institutions.
Al-Khlaifat added that the School remains committed to preparing qualified professionals to deliver evidence-based rehabilitation services, while promoting public awareness grounded in dignity, equality, and respect for human rights.
Neda’a Alworikat, Department of Occupational Therapy, said genuine social progress depends on building inclusive communities based on equality and respect for diverse abilities. She stressed that disability is shaped by the interaction between individuals and environmental, behavioural, and organisational barriers, noting that removing these barriers and providing reasonable accommodations can support fuller participation and independence.
Shorouq Abu Rumman, Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences, urged students to treat the empowerment of persons with disabilities as an ongoing practice that begins in classrooms and extends to academic projects and community engagement.
The event featured national-themed performances and short films reflecting the perspectives of disability advocates and content creators, alongside presentations on UJ accessibility measures and support services.
It also highlighted the School’s disciplines of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Hearing and Speech Sciences, and Orthotics and Prosthetics, with a student exhibition showcasing their role in supporting persons with disabilities and promoting inclusive participation.