Ajman University Hosts IFEMH’24, a Seminal Event on Inclusive Education and Mental Health
AJMAN, FEBRUARY 2024: Ajman University hosted the 3rd International Forum on Education and Mental Health (IFEMH 2024) on February 28-29 at its campus in Al Jurf, Ajman. A seminal event focused on discussing, discovering and sharing best practices in education and mental health, IFEMH’s theme in this edition was ‘Inclusive and Equitable Quality Education.’
Representatives of more than 20 higher education institutions from across the UAE, MENA region, India, USA, UK, and Australia participated in the Forum which served as a venue for innovative ideas in the realm of inclusive and equitable education.
The theme of IFEMH 2024 in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goal No. 4, was to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
The Forum opened on February 28 with an opening speech by Ajman University Chancellor, Dr. Karim Seghir.
“Ajman University in collaboration with progressive higher education institutions across the world is committed to furthering the cause of inclusive education and equal opportunities for all. I am confident that this key forum will lead to the discovery of new and innovative ideas that will help in addressing challenges to inclusive education faced by higher education institutions globally,” said Dr. Karim Seghir.
Following this, Dr. Nahla Al Qassimi, Conference Chair and Dean of Student Services, Ajman University set the tone for the two-day event with her rousing speech, while also welcoming the speakers, delegates and attendees.
Prof. Ahmed Dallal, President of the American University of Cairo, Egypt delivered a keynote speech on ‘A Culture of Care: A Holistic Approach to Mental Well-Being on the University Campus.’
A key highlight of the event was the keynote speech on ‘Women in STEM’ by Eng. Teresa Bilinska, Vice Chair of Association of Polish Engineers in Great Britain. Eng. Bilinska delved into important issues within the domain such as motivation for women in STEM and participation of women in the international engineering market during her keynote speech.
A number of interesting discussions were lined up for the first day of the event including topics such as teaching experiences & pedagogy, nurturing creativity & innovation in education, learning & learner diversity, and a workshop on parents’ role in special education.
On day two of the event on February 29, Prof. Alexandra Alisa Proff, Assistant Professor of Education,Department Chairperson, and Academic Integrity Officer, American university of Ras Al-Khaimah delivered a keynote speech on ‘Cultivating Cultures of Wellness: The Critical Intersection of Educational Leadership and Well-Being in Schools.’
Highlights of day two included discussions on learning difficulties & disability, emotional & cognitive development in the educational context, inclusive education in practice and research, and a highly interesting workshop on relationships, family & inclusive education among others.
