The Hamza Foundation’s Work in Lahore, Pakistan

Pakistan is full of people who are there to help others by all means. For this reason, there are many NGO’s as well as private efforts being made in this regard. Many such organizations have been made for mentally and physically challenged people, and these organizations are running purely on charities and donations. The Hamza Foundation Academy for the Deaf is a similar organization that stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the deaf community, which pioneers the innovative educational approaches that have been specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with hearing disabilities.

Hamza Foundation purely believes in the dignity of humans regardless of their gender, race or even status as is the very essence of our religious teachings that all humans are equal regardless of their race, gender or color. The Foundation works on this vision about making the world a better place to live in through humanitarian work, while respecting the dignity of every human being involved with the organization in any way.

The history of the Hamza Foundation dates back to more than 50 years, in 1954. Late Mr. Mian Muhammad Amin s/o Late Mian Muhammad Hayat established the Sabra Masjid in Shershah Karachi. The main aim of making this masjid was to impart knowledge and education to the children living in the underprivileged areas there. After his death in 1967, his legacy was carried forward by laying a Foundation of a social welfare institution in his memory by the name of “Amin Hayat Trust” which was later changed into Hamza Foundation in 1978, while also registered as a Welfare Trust.

A Visionary Approach to Deaf Education

The Hamza Foundation Academy for the Deaf is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and inclusive educational experience for the deaf students. Special teaching methodologies are being followed here to teach the students with hearing disabilities. In this regard, resources are used and it is main aim of the academy to bridge the gap between deaf and other students so that the students are able to work on their full potential.

Holistic Approach to Learning

The Academy adopts a holistic approach to teaching and learning where there is a nurtured and inclusive environment where academic excellence along with personal growth of the deaf children. The curriculum is designed to accommodate diverse learning styles ensuring that students receive tailored support and encouragement which would not only help them understand the mainstream education system as well as becoming confident individuals that can take on life head on. The main approach in this specialized curriculum is multifaceted which incorporate sign language, lip reading, making use of visual aids and technology to facilitate effective communication and learning for all the students. In addition to making use of these advanced methods, a conducive learning environment for the students is also provided by the academy organizers.

Community engagement in Trust activities

The Trust not only works for the collection of charities and donations, but the Academy is also actively involved in raising awareness about the education for deaf. The Academy also strongly advocates inclusivity. The Academy also works in making collaborative efforts with families, volunteers and organizations to create a supportive and understanding environment for the deaf individuals where they could grow as a successful individual in the society.

Programs Offered by Hamza Foundation

From 9th to B.A

School	From Play Group to 8th Grade
College
Certificates Courses	Hardware & Networking
	Stitching & Designing

Diplomas

Textile Designing Diploma Graphic Designing Diploma Beautician Diploma Computer Application & Office Professional

Degree Programs

Bachelor of Fine Arts

(BFA) Graphic Designing Bachelor of Fine Arts

(BFA) Textile Designing

BS Audiology (Hons)

HFAD has started BS Honors Audiology Program with the affiliation of University of Health Sciences

OPD Services

The Trust also provides an OPD, where the major goal of the out-patient department in HFAD is to provide all the facilities (audiology, speech and psychology) under one roof for the convenience of the patients. It aims to help people to get the best therapy and services at affordable rates

Speech Department

Assessment and management of all types of speech and language disorders for all age groups is carried out here including:

• Stammering
• Articulation
• Speech and language delay
• Dysarthria

Audiology Department

HFAD is providing the following facilities to outpatients:
Audiological Assessment
Otoacoustic Emission (OAE)

• Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR)
• Tympanometry
• Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA)
• Conditioned Play Audiometry (CPA)
• Speech Audiometry
• Ear mould fabrication
• Hearing aid dispensing
• Counseling and guidance

Psychology Department

• Consultation and guidance
• Assessment with the help of reliable and valid tools for these problems:
• Neurodevelopmental disorders
• Intellectual functioning
• Behavior related issue
• Learning and academic difficulties
• Adolescent and adult psychotherapy

Conclusion

Concluding this article, it could be said that the Hamza Foundation Academy for the Deaf stands as a testament to the transformative power of specialized education in empowering deaf individuals. The organization has come a long way and is doing an excellent piece of work for the betterment of the society through its dedication to inclusivity, innovation, and community engagement.