Forum highlights digital transformation in charitable work

MUSCAT, DEC 16
In its pursuit to keep pace with digital transformation and enhance the efficiency and sustainability of charitable work, Dar Al Ata’a Society organised the Charitable Teams Forum, 'Techno Ata’a', highlighting the role of technology and digitalisation in developing the charitable and voluntary work system, and on creating innovative solutions that meet the changing needs of society and the aspirations of the Omani community.
The opening ceremony was attended by Shaikh Rashid bin Ahmed al Shamsi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development, along with Maryam bint Essa al Zadjaliyah, Founder and Chairperson of Dar Al Ata’a Society, and representatives from 45 charitable teams across Oman.
The forum showcased the best digital practices in charitable work, discussed the latest fundraising methods, digital marketing techniques, and highlighted ethical and media standards in promoting humanitarian cases to preserve beneficiaries’ dignity and enhance donor confidence.
During the forum, Dar Al-Ata’a Society launched the Ethical Charter for Charitable Media Work. Dr Shamsa bint Hamad al Harthy, CEO of the society, explained that the charter aims to establish a professional and ethical framework that preserves the dignity of humanitarian cases, protects their privacy and data confidentiality, and enhances credibility and transparency when sharing the stories of the needy or requesting donations via media and social platforms.
She said that the charter also empowers charitable workers to perform their media roles professionally, maintaining public trust and protecting beneficiaries’ rights. Dr Shamsa emphasised that the 'Techno Ata’a' forum brings together charitable teams from all governorates of Oman and highlights the use of modern technologies in charitable and voluntary work.
Eng Majid bin Fayel al Amri from Thawani platform presented a paper on digital transformation and its impact on improving the efficiency of charitable institutions and the use of smart systems, enabling the presentation of cases digitally in a professional manner without defamation, while considering design quality, angles and engaging elements.
The media role in presenting humanitarian cases was further highlighted by social media influencer Mohammed al Mukhaini, who presented a paper on methods of presenting cases through media and social platforms. He stressed that cases should be shared under licensed platforms to maintain their dignity and ensure prompt response to resolve their crises.
Media professional Moath al Nadabi from Dar Al Ata’a Society presented a paper on producing visual content, whether video clips, photos or designs, emphasising the importance of choosing proper angles and avoiding filming children or families in a way that could harm them rather than assist them.
The Civil Aviation Authority also participated, with Abdullah al Khadouri, Director-General of Meteorology, presenting a paper on disaster management and early warning systems, highlighting the importance of voluntary work in reducing risks and ensuring the integrated success of humanitarian efforts.
Maryam al Zadjali praised the active participation of a large number of charitable teams from across Oman, noting their role as essential partners in studying cases, collecting data, and presenting innovative ideas to accelerate charitable work in the community.
Rashid al Hashimi of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali Voluntary Team said that the forum allowed the team to explore the latest technologies and best practices to implement within their work. Salem al Harithy, Head of Al Qabil Charity Team, noted the positive impact of the forum in sharing knowledge on interacting with society, humanitarian cases and disasters, as well as keeping up with technological developments in charitable work.
Zaid al Shehi, Vice-President of Dibba Charity Team, highlighted the importance of such gatherings in exchanging experiences and building relationships that strengthen charitable work and follow modern developments.