THE LALLA ASMAA FOUNDATION CHAMPIONS EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL HEARINGIMPAIRED

USPA NEWS - “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Helen Keller
Born deaf and blind, Helen Keller overcame unimaginable barriers to become a world-renowned author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities. Her story remains a timeless symbol of resilience, courage, and the power of inclusive education.
In that same spirit of unwavering determination, another remarkable woman has led a lifelong battle — this time in Morocco. Since 1968, Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Asmaa has dedicated herself to the service of children with hearing disabilities, through a mission both visionary and deeply human. Through her indefectible commitment, she has carried the cause of deaf and hard-of-hearing children with extraordinary grace, empathy, and perseverance. The Lalla Asmaa Foundation for deaf-mute children, created as early as 1968, embodies the lifelong commitment of a deeply engaged Princess, and advocates for equal opportunities for all children with hearing disabilities.

Under the enlightened guidance of Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Asmaa, Morocco has unveiled a one-of-a-kind model of inclusion for deaf children thought a pure powerful educational program until they get admitted to the college. Through her unwavering royal commitment and deeply human institutional leadership, the Princess — sister of His Majesty King Mohammed VI — has brought to life a forward-thinking and inclusive vision that sets a precedent.
Driven by this visionary momentum, the Lalla Asmaa Foundation has become a national and continental benchmark in the support of deaf and hard-of-hearing children. The model it has implemented combines advanced medical care, adapted rehabilitation, specialized education, psychosocial guidance, and family training — a holistic approach centered on empowering each child.
This exemplary initiative, grounded in dignity and fairness, reflects the strength of royal leadership committed to a universal cause. It reveals the noblest side of Morocco, a country that offers excellence to all, especially to those whom the world too often overlooks.

“Your children are not your children. They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.” Khalil Gibran

A HEARTFELT LESSON IN RESILIENCE: JOURNALISTS MOVED BY THE DEAF & MUTE CHILDREN OF LALLA ASMAA FOUNDATION IN TANGIERS, 11TH JUNE 2025
During our visit to the Lalla Asmaa Foundation in Tangier, President Karim Elskalli passionately shared the rich portfolio of educational and creative activities offered to deaf and mute children enrolled at the foundation. From miniature arts, culinary skills, textiles, and painting to cutting-edge robotics, the foundation nurtures the creative potential of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The predominantly female teaching staff lovingly imparts the basics of Moroccan Sign Language (Darija dialect) alongside elements of French Sign Language (LSF), reflecting the cultural and linguistic diversity of the country. "We, the journalists got emotional, we were embraced by Silence, empowered by Love: throughout the Visit to Lalla Asmaa Foundation in Tangier”

Following the heartfelt visit to the Lalla Asmaa Foundation, the vibrant laughter and radiant smiles of the deaf and mute children forever imprinted themselves on the hearts of the journalists present. These extraordinary young souls, gifted with cochlear implants and endowed with an unyielding zest for life, danced through their days like any child, their spirits soaring high above the challenges of their disabilities. Under the patient guidance of seasoned teachers fluent in sign language, they were embraced with unwavering kindness, tender care, and attentive support, a true family united by hope and dedication.

The pinnacle of this touching encounter was the moment when, with the delicate artistry of their five little fingers, the children formed the words “I LUV U,” a spontaneous and pure expression of love directed toward the many journalists who had come to witness their story. The devoted instructors; among them Oumayma, Ilham, Houssam, and Sarah from the innovative company EXPLEO, were equally moved, proud to impart their knowledge of engineering and robotics to these remarkable children, already familiar with robotic companions and soon to explore the wonders of artificial intelligence.

MOROCCO ASSERTS LEADERSHIP IN HEARING DISABILITY REPAIR ACROSS AFRICA THANKS TO THE LALLA ASMAA FOUNDATION
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." – Nelson Mandela
This convergence of technology and humanity was not only deeply moving but profoundly educational—a living lesson in resilience, joy, and mutual respect that transcended generations and abilities. The scene was further enriched by the presence of Brasilian Chef Raphael Rego, a Michelin-starred maestro, who orchestrated a mini culinary brigade alongside some of the foundation’s adolescent students. Together, they crafted a delectable dessert, a delicate mousse of chocolate and mango, tender at the heart and encased in a crunchy crumble , a testament to their shared creativity and pride. Presenting their creations to the gathered journalists, the young chefs embodied the spirit of celebration, marking a ceremonious close to the year 2024-2025.

In 2025, a major humanitarian initiative was launched from Morocco to 17 other countries across Africa, resulting in hearing implant surgeries for over one hundred children with hearing impairments. This remarkable effort marks a milestone in providing access to transformative medical care on the continent.
Moreover, a groundbreaking global partnership is underway between the Lalla Asmaa Foundation and Gallaudet University in Washington D.C. -a world leader in higher education for the deaf. With an agreement currently in preparation, 2025 has witnessed a significant acceleration of the foundation’s international impact. In February, more than 120 deaf children from 17 African and Middle Eastern countries underwent life-changing surgeries and received dedicated support in Morocco during this exceptional humanitarian campaign. Shortly thereafter, the foundation initiated strategic collaboration with Gallaudet University to co-develop innovative research, training programs, and exchanges aimed at further advancing deaf education and inclusion worldwide.

This milestone cements Morocco’s role as a key player in hearing disability care on the African continent and on the global stage, underscoring the country’s commitment to empowering deaf communities and driving progress in accessibility and inclusion. Source : Lalla Asmaa Foundation Press Release. Coverage reported by our handicapped correspondent, Rahma Sophia Rachdi