Meleka Mansouri: A Pioneer in Special Education and Audiology Advocacy

Meleka Mansouri is a distinguished Algerian professional and a dedicated advocate for children with hearing impairments and special educational needs. With a career spanning nearly three decades, she has become a respected figure in training, education, and therapy for differently-abled individuals. Her work has significantly contributed to the development of inclusive education and specialized training for professionals working with children with disabilities.

A Life Dedicated to Specialized Training and Therapy

Born on October 13, 1968, in Algeria, Meleka currently serves as a trainer at the National Center for Training Specialized Personnel in Institutions for People with Disabilities. Her dedication to education and inclusion is evident through her professional journey and numerous impactful roles, including:

  • Speech Therapist and Psychologist (1995–2017) at the School for Hearing-Impaired Children in Batna
  • Head of the Educational and Pedagogical Service (2017–2022)
  • Specialist in follow-up care for children with cochlear implants at the ENT Service in Batna
  • Trainer for police and postal workers on sign language
  • Conducting training sessions for specialists at the Social Development Agency

Research and Academic Contributions

Meleka’s academic contributions extend beyond practical therapy. She has authored and co-authored valuable resources, including:

  • Algerian Sign Language Dictionary
  • Finger Spelling Guide for Parents of Hearing-Impaired Children

She has also led workshops and presented research papers at various national and international conferences, including:

  • International Conference on Special Education in Sharjah, UAE
  • Maghreb Conference in Mauritania
  • Scientific presentation on the impact of COVID-19 on care for individuals with special needs at a virtual conference in Egypt
  • Workshops and training sessions in Tunisia and Mauritania on cochlear implants, autism, and neurodevelopmental disabilities

A Champion for Inclusive Education

Meleka’s dedication to fostering inclusive environments is highlighted by her work on early childhood education for children with hearing impairments. She has organized and participated in numerous training events, including:

  • Workshops on early education strategies for hearing-impaired children
  • Training sessions on educational games as learning tools and therapeutic methods

Her international collaborations and efforts in inclusive education have made her a well-regarded figure across Algeria and beyond.

Advancing Awareness and Advocacy

Through her active participation in forums and conferences, including the Arab International Conference on Cultural and Sports Rights in Tunisia, Meleka continues to raise awareness about the rights and inclusion of children with special needs.

Her relentless commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusive educational practices stands as an inspiration to educators, therapists, and advocates alike.

Meleka Mansouri’s journey exemplifies a life dedicated to making a meaningful impact, breaking barriers, and creating inclusive spaces where every child, regardless of ability, can thrive.