Higher Institute of Music in Sousse: Equal Opportunity in the Service of Creativity
In a pioneering step that reinforces the principles of inclusion and excellence, the Higher Institute of Music in Sousse launched, in September 2023, the first national center for teaching music in Braille in Tunisia and the Arab world, specifically dedicated to supporting visually impaired students. The center includes a dedicated room for printing musical scores in Braille, tactile reading boards, a comprehensive library, and scanning technologies that facilitate access to and reading of documents.
This project is based on active collaboration between faculty members, staff, artists, and civil society, aiming to empower students through the creation of musical ensembles and employment opportunities. It forms part of a broader vision to build a community that embraces creativity and upholds the values of inclusion without exception.
Presenter
Awatef Hussein, Library Officer, Higher Institute of Music in Sousse – University of Sousse, Tunisia
Awatef Hussein has served as the Head Librarian at the Higher Institute of Music in Sousse since 1999, bringing with her 28 years of extensive experience in the fields of librarianship and documentation. She is particularly committed to supporting individuals with special needs at the institute, serving as a coordinator within the University of Sousse’s Unit for Students with Disabilities. She is also a founding member of the Braille Music Center. In addition, Awatef serves as the institute’s liaison to the University Center for Scientific and Technical Documentation, where she plays an active role in organizing outreach events focused on periodicals and electronic resources.
Awatef is a member of the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information, serves as the Regional Coordinator for North Africa, and contributes to the Digital Map project in the role of Explorer. Awatef is deeply committed to ongoing professional development through regular participation in conferences and training programs. She also volunteers in various international initiatives dedicated to supporting the blind and visually impaired.