As part of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization’s efforts to promote digital accessibility and inclusion, and in conjunction with the International Day of Sign Languages, observed annually on September 23, the museum continues to enhance its online services. It is set to become the first museum under the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to align its online services and content with accessibility standards. The step will provide effortless access to diverse audiences, particularly people with disabilities. It is a collaborative effort with the National Academy for Information Technology for Persons with Disabilities.
The step also aligns with Egypt’s strategy toward digital transformation and boosting online accessibility and inclusion. It makes it easier for people with disabilities to access online information and services. It also offers a more flexible digital experience for diverse user groups, particularly individuals with visual and hearing impairments. This will increase their access to the museum’s content and services and their participation in cultural and community life.
The online platform now offers 28 online features, allowing users to configure the website based on their preferences. This feature includes changing the size of the font, increasing the mouse pointer size, changing the colors, having the dark mode activated, and hiding images or fonts that help people who suffer from dyslexia. It will provide easier navigation and access to various services like buying tickets or booking tours. In addition, the mentioned features include a wide range of helpful tools for the users with visual impairments, such as text-to-speech, making it user-friendly.
As part of enhancing accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments, the website also provides a sign language service. This feature was introduced simultaneously with the International Day of Sign Languages, reflecting the importance of providing easy access to information and cultural content to all segments of society, enabling them to browse the museum’s services and its civilizational and cultural offerings.
Dr. Tayeb Abbas, Chief Executive of the museum authority, stated that upgrading the official website in accordance with digital accessibility standards reflects the museum’s commitment to aligning with Egypt’s digital transformation. The step aims to deliver advanced cultural and digital services that ensure easy access to information and services for all segments of society. This will support the museum’s efforts to promote inclusion and integration. It also ensures universal access to Egypt’s civilizational heritage.
Meanwhile, Fayrouz Fikry, Deputy Chief Executive for Administration and Operations, said that enhancing the museum’s official website represents an important step toward enhancing the visitor experience and improving access to its digital content and services. She added the official website serves as the primary gateway to the museum's information and services, including booking entry tickets and guided tours. The addition of digital accessibility features contributes to empowering people with disabilities to access these services more easily and independently.
Moreover, Mohammad Azzam, Director of Information Technology and Digital Transformation at the Museum, said that the official website now incorporates a comprehensive system of integrated digital accessibility options. These allow users to personalize their browsing experience and control how content is displayed according to their preferences. In addition, the system includes supportive tools such as voice reading, sign language service, and other features that facilitate access to the website’s content and digital services.
🖋️Source: Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Online Portal
