In a remarkable initiative to enhance international collaboration and promote best practices for individuals with learning difficulties, the Sharjah Center for Learning Difficulties (SCLD) participated in the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Learning Difficulties, which took place in Amman, Jordan, from May 6 to 8, 2025. This global gathering brought together experts, educators, researchers, and advocates from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues surrounding learning disabilities, share innovative strategies, and seek collaborative solutions to improve the quality of life for individuals with learning difficulties.
The conference was an important event in the field of education and inclusion, providing a platform for professionals to discuss the latest research, educational interventions, and successful methodologies for diagnosing and treating learning difficulties. The presence of SCLD, led by Dr. Hanadi Al Suwaidi, underscored the organization’s commitment to advancing the field and positioning Sharjah as a leader in the Middle East in terms of addressing learning difficulties and promoting inclusive education.
Fostering International Cooperation
Dr. Hanadi Al Suwaidi, the Director of SCLD, led the center’s delegation at the conference. The delegation’s primary goal was to establish and strengthen international ties with key organizations and academic institutions that share a commitment to improving the lives of individuals facing learning challenges. In particular, the conference provided an excellent opportunity to explore collaboration with Princess Tharwat University College in Jordan, an institution known for its commitment to research and training in the field of special education and learning difficulties.
A significant outcome of the event was the formal signing of a cooperation agreement between SCLD and Princess Tharwat University College. This partnership will focus on several key areas, including academic and training exchanges, collaborative research, and curriculum development tailored to address the specific needs of students with learning difficulties. Furthermore, the agreement provides for practical training opportunities for students at SCLD, ensuring that future professionals in the field receive hands-on experience with the latest diagnostic tools and educational practices.
A Unified Approach to Diagnostic Tools
One of the standout features of the partnership between SCLD and Princess Tharwat University College is the joint effort to develop a unified and comprehensive diagnostic and assessment tool for individuals with learning difficulties. These diagnostic tools will be specifically tailored to meet local and regional needs, providing a reliable and standardized method for identifying learning disabilities. The development of such tools is crucial in ensuring that accurate assessments are conducted, allowing educators and specialists to provide the most effective interventions and support for students.
Learning difficulties can be complex and multifaceted, often requiring personalized educational plans. The development of this diagnostic tool will enhance the ability to identify challenges early on, providing a foundation for effective intervention and rehabilitation. This initiative also aims to ensure that both local and international standards are met, with the goal of improving the overall quality of education for students with special needs.
Dr. Hanadi Al Suwaidi’s Address: The Importance of Inclusive Education
In her address at the conference, Dr. Hanadi emphasized the critical role of inclusive education in empowering individuals with learning difficulties. She explained that creating an inclusive educational environment is not just a matter of providing accommodations but of fostering a culture that truly understands and respects the differences of all students. She called for greater societal awareness and understanding of learning disabilities, urging the importance of empathy and active support in educational settings.
Dr. Hanadi’s powerful message was clear: the needs of individuals with learning difficulties should be prioritized, and their potential should be nurtured. She stressed that a holistic approach, one that integrates psychological, social, and educational strategies, is essential to empowering these students. “We must open windows of hope for them, providing genuine support in an educational environment that respects their differences, nurtures their capabilities, and refines their skills,” Dr. Hanadi stated, capturing the core of her vision for inclusive education.
The emphasis on inclusivity is not just about providing physical accommodations but also about cultivating an environment where students feel valued, understood, and motivated to succeed. In the UAE and beyond, there is a growing recognition of the importance of creating education systems that support all learners, including those with learning difficulties.
Sharing Best Practices: SCLD’s Contribution to Global Dialogue
At the heart of SCLD’s participation in the conference was the desire to share its valuable experience and expertise with the global community. During the conference, SCLD presented a paper titled “Sharjah Centre for Learning Difficulties: A Model Institution.” This presentation showcased the center’s innovative programs, services, and its pioneering work in promoting scientific awareness around learning disabilities. It was an opportunity to highlight SCLD’s approach to comprehensive assessments, educational support, and professional training.
SCLD has long been recognized for its contributions to the field of learning difficulties, particularly in terms of its holistic approach to supporting individuals with special needs. The center offers a range of services, from diagnosing learning disabilities to evaluating educational institutions and providing specialized training for educators. By sharing these best practices with international counterparts, SCLD aims to enhance global efforts in supporting individuals with learning difficulties and improve the overall quality of education worldwide.
Field Visits and Professional Exchanges
As part of their participation in the conference, the SCLD delegation also undertook field visits to several institutions in Amman. These visits included a tour of the Al-Bunayat Centre for Special Education, Princess Tharwat University College, and the National Centre for Learning Difficulties in Jordan. The field visits provided a valuable opportunity for SCLD to observe and learn from the practices and approaches implemented by these institutions. The exchanges were aimed at deepening understanding and identifying areas for future collaboration, particularly in the areas of joint research projects and professional development.
The visits allowed the SCLD delegation to gain insight into the specific challenges faced by other institutions and learn from the successes and innovations that have been implemented in Jordan and the wider region. It also enabled the delegation to explore ways in which they could collaborate more effectively with regional and international partners to create a more inclusive educational environment for all students, regardless of their learning difficulties.
Conclusion: SCLD’s Commitment to Progress
SCLD’s participation in the 2nd International Scientific Conference on Learning Difficulties in Amman marked a significant step forward in the organization’s ongoing mission to improve the lives of individuals with learning disabilities. Through partnerships, collaboration, and the exchange of knowledge, SCLD is making meaningful progress toward creating a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.
The center’s commitment to developing unified diagnostic tools, promoting inclusive education, and fostering international cooperation demonstrates its leadership in the field. By engaging with global experts and sharing best practices, SCLD is helping to ensure that individuals with learning difficulties receive the support they need to succeed, both in the classroom and in life.
As SCLD continues to build on its successes and expand its network of international partners, it remains dedicated to advancing the cause of inclusive education and improving the quality of life for individuals with learning difficulties, both in Sharjah and across the world.
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