The Journey of the Word: Between Challenge and Empowerment

The Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology at the College of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, Taibah University organized a scientific event titled “The Journey of the Word: Between Challenge and Empowerment.” The event was held on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Conference Center of Taibah University, as part of efforts to enhance community awareness of the field of audiology and speech-language pathology and to highlight the role of speech-language pathologists in serving individuals and society.

Main Objectives of the Event

Raising community awareness about speech disorders and the role of specialists and families in the rehabilitation journey to improve language and communication.
Correcting misconceptions related to speech, hearing, and swallowing disorders.
Highlighting the latest technologies and developments in this field.
Strengthening partnerships between the academic sector and other relevant community entities.

The event began with a visit by Her Excellency the President of the University, Dr. Nawal Al-Rasheed, accompanied by university vice presidents and several university leaders, to the clinics and the booths of the sponsoring and participating organizations.

The program then officially opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, followed by a speech by His Excellency the Dean of the College, Dr. Mohammed Al-Harbi, who welcomed the attendees and emphasized the importance of such scientific gatherings in enhancing the university’s role in community awareness and maximizing its societal impact. A short introductory video about the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology program and the department offering it was also presented.

Following this, Her Excellency the University President, Dr. Nawal Al-Rasheed, honored the speakers as well as the sponsoring and participating organizations in appreciation of their scientific contributions and continued support in making the event a success.

Scientific Lectures

A series of specialized scientific lectures followed:

Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Mudhhi, Consultant and Associate Professor of Speech Disorders at King Khalid University, delivered a lecture titled “Stuttering Between Science and Society: From Misconceptions to Digital Solutions.” He discussed common perceptions about stuttering, corrected several misconceptions, and reviewed the latest digital solutions and applications supporting diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Yasser Al-Saabi, Rehabilitation Director at Cochlear Company for the Middle East, Russia, Turkey, and Africa, and former Director of Al-Zamel Center for Audiology and Speech, delivered a lecture titled “The Role of Parents in the Journey of Auditory and Language Rehabilitation.” He highlighted the importance of effective collaboration between families and the therapeutic team, and the impact of family support in achieving the best rehabilitation outcomes for children.
Mr. Saleh Al-Suwailem, Speech-Language Pathologist and Clinical Director at Jusoor School, presented a lecture titled “Fundamental Skills Toward Natural Language Development.” He reviewed the foundations and developmental stages of language and discussed key practical strategies to support healthy and natural language growth.

Following the lectures, an open panel discussion was held in which the speakers addressed questions from the audience and discussed frequently asked questions regarding speech and communication disorders, providing an opportunity for knowledge exchange and deeper scientific engagement among participants.

Workshops

The event also included a number of interactive scientific workshops aimed at developing participants’ clinical skills and strengthening the practical aspects of the specialty, including:

“Simple Steps to Develop Our Children’s Language Skills,” presented by Mr. Saleh Al-Suwailem.
“Stuttering: From Speech Sample to Diagnostic Report,” presented by Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Mudhhi.
“Evidence-Based Practice in Communication Disorders,” presented by Dr. Yasser Al-Saabi.