This November, we are spotlighting Mohammed Saif, a dedicated advocate for inclusive education and a British Council presenter from Sudan
Born blind, Mohamed Saifuddin Hamza is a dedicated advocate for inclusive education, shaped by his own journey through public classrooms—experiencing both inclusive and exclusive settings. With two years of experience teaching online via platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, and Telegram, he has seamlessly adapted to digital spaces to engage his students.
Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in twenty twenty-two and on the cusp of completing his honors degree, Mohamed’s academic journey is complemented by an impressive array of certifications. These include computational thinking from MIT, machine learning from Cambridge, and data science from HP. His deep interest in AI and digital tools drives his mission to enhance inclusivity in education.
As an English teacher, Mohamed's passion for languages extends to his ongoing studies in Spanish and Japanese. A lifelong learner, he believes that education is a journey that never truly ends. Through his seminar on technologies for inclusive education, he draws from his rich experiences, urging educators to leverage digital tools to create classrooms where every student, regardless of their abilities, can thrive.
Key digital tools for inclusivity and accessibility: Mohammed Saif’s key digital tools session
On 8 November, Mohammed Saif conducted an insightful session for members of our regional teachers' online community, focusing on digital tools for inclusivity and accessibility in education.
The session highlighted practical strategies for making classrooms more inclusive, emphasizing how technology can bridge gaps for learners with disabilities. Here are some of the key highlights he shared:
- Mohammed introduced tools like screen readers, text-to-speech software, and accessible learning management systems (LMS), showcasing their ability to empower learners with disabilities and facilitate active participation.
- The session emphasized inclusive design elements, such as closed captions, alt text, and high-contrast modes, ensuring digital materials are usable for all learners.
- Digital platforms were showcased as spaces where learners of diverse abilities can collaborate in dynamic, interactive ways.
Mohammed shared the following tips for teachers:
- Start small: Teachers were encouraged to integrate accessibility tools gradually to build confidence.
- Personalise learning: Mohammed demonstrated how digital tools can tailor lessons to individual needs, fostering inclusion.
- Continuous growth: Staying updated on technology trends and incorporating student feedback ensures inclusive teaching evolves effectively.
Participants left the session inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to create classrooms where every learner can thrive. Mohammed’s session not only enriched the community but also reinforced the importance of inclusivity in shaping the future of education.