The Dar Al-Uloom University for women in Riyadh recently concluded a community service initiative, called “Give back to society.”

Some 15 female students of interior design in the university nominated by their department participated in the month-long program conducted at the Special Care Center (SCC) of the International Indian Public School (IIPS), which caters for the education and rehabilitation of 24 children with special needs.

The female students from different academic levels collaborated their efforts to redesign, remodel and renovate the school premises for the special needs children as part of their commitment to community service.

Underlining the significance of the program, Joanna Feidi, head of the interior design department, said: “Community service projects should be one of the main focus points of the interior design department because it helps people and gives students valuable experience, builds character and increases social awareness.”

The project was envisioned and coordinated by Hina Wasif, lecturer, interior design department. She said: “The training program was a great learning opportunity for students as they received hands-on experience while working on a real project for the first time. The students did extensive research and applied the knowledge and skills gained from classroom learning to create a quality environment for these children.”

“The goal was to design a safe, comfortable and cheerful environment for the children. The challenge was to study the psychology of children suffering from cerebral palsy, autism, ADHD and Down’s syndrome for the correct selection of color scheme, materials and accessories,” said Hina, speaking to Arab News. She added that the project taught the students to look beyond themselves.

Dalia Al-Akki, a final year student, said: “The best part of the project was, of course, the end, when we showed the children what we did, and we saw their faces light up with excitement and happiness. I think we should be doing more of these projects in future.”

Khadija Al-Haifi, another senior student, said: “Working on this project was productive. It helped to establish strong ties among students which resulted in great teamwork. Moreover, we developed a bond with the special needs children, which brought out the best in us. This project has given me the confidence and enthusiasm to work as a professional interior designer.”

Joanna said: “When students apply what they are learning in ways that help others, the results are not only amazing but also quite touching.” The project has not only been inspiring for the students, but has also taught them the value of giving back to their community.