Yasser Tamer Atef: Advocating inclusive education 

Edited By: Karim M.

Photo Taken By: Yasser Tamer Atef

Yasser Tamer Atef, a visually impaired English and Comparative Literature junior at AUC, represents a story of determination and success in the field of literature and research.

Atef pursues his advocacy work in the field of studies, and works with the Student Accessibility Services Unit on campus, helping with academic accommodations, and academic guidance to other students with disabilities in the University. He already won two awards for his work in education.

With a passion for English literature, Atef centered his studies around facilitating learning for people with disabilities and finding easier ways for students with disabilities to learn and attain a similar experience as others. One way to do that, for instance, was through the use of artificial intelligence (AI)  for easier reading on different platforms. 

In 2023, Atef won two awards at AUC; the “Best Engaged Research Award” in March 2023 and 

the “Open Education for Excellence Award” in September 2023. 

Atef won this award in education for his impactful advocacy work in the field of disability accessibility. This also recognized Atef’s remarkable commitment to fostering inclusive conversations and raising awareness about disability rights. 

“My parents were very proud of me when I was receiving my awards; my mother teared up when I took my first award,” said Atef. 

He added that in 2023, he began hosting and teaching workshops occasionally, such as the “Intentionally Equitable Hospitality” with Equity Unbound, an equity-focused curriculum, to discuss open educational practices, open publishing, and digital literacies. It also addresses critical pedagogy, as well as community building and community reflection, well-being, and joy. 

Atef explained that one of the most special moments in his life was when he joined the Access Program in 2018.

“This program was a changing moment in my life, as it made me accessible to the world and provided me with an opportunity to enter AUC in 2021,” said Atef.

The Access Program, also known as the English Access Microscholarship Program, offers students who are at an economic disadvantage, aged 12 to 30 years old, the opportunity to learn the foundations of English. 

Atef explains that while the Access Program was momental for him, it was also challenging, and switching from an Arabic educational system to an English system was difficult. 

He noted how challenging it was for him at first, and that it took him time to adjust to major changes, such as the social boundaries, the large campus, the teaching style, and the technology.

By enrolling at AUC, Atef gained access to facilities that he was not exposed to before, such as the Center of Learning and Teaching (CLT) for students with disabilities where he was an accessibility advisor and assistant. The Research Center also helped him conduct his research and win the Best Engaged Research Award. 

Atef explained that his proudest moment was when he published his first article in The Caravan about AI and how it can be used to facilitate learning for disabled students. 

“People doubted me at the time and believed that I would not be able to accomplish all of that, and that is why I am proud of it,” explained Atef.

Maha Bali, a professor of practice in the Center for Learning and Teaching and one of Atef’s professors, complimented his work ethic and kindness.

 “He is always willing to put in time and energy to help promote a more socially just and caring learning environment,” Bali told The Caravan. 

Bali added that Atef is not only a student to her, but also a friend, and she is always excited to teach him and see his inspiration and thrive to learn more. 

Atef shared that his goal is to continue with his studies in English and Comparative Literature, as well as pursue his master’s and PhD degrees abroad.