Everyone had reason to be happy at the ‘Village of Happiness’ carnival at the Civil Aviation Club amid the best weather on a weekend, with games, music, folk dance and birds. The carnival was held under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Mohammed bin Thuwaini bin Shihab al Said.
“The ‘Village of Happiness’ offers a safe and fun environment for people with disabilities. This is how we wanted to mark the International Day for People with Disabilities. All the activities are free. I hope this event creates beautiful memories for them and their families,” said HH Sayyida Hujaija al Said.
The initiative was supported by strategic partners, such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), the Civil Aviation Club, and others from the private sector.
More than 1,500 kids connected with various associations and institutions serving children with disabilities were invited to the event. The institutions taking part included the Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities, Oman Association for the Hearing Impaired, Oman National Autism Centre, Al Amal Centre of Ministry of Social Development, Al Fikriya School of Ministry of Education, Association for Children with Disability, Oman down Syndrome Association, Omar bin Al Khattab Institute, Special Olympics Oman, Oman Association for Persons with Disabilities, Hams Al Atheer Rehab Center, Indian School Muscat - Care and Special Education, Advanced Complete Therapy.
The opening ceremony also had the facility of sign language interpreters for announcements and performances.
The objective of the Village of Happiness was to have a vibrant and joyous celebration for the people with disabilities in Oman. The carnival provided a fun-filled and inclusive environment. From thrilling rides to entertaining performances, the carnival offered a wide range of attractions that catered to the diverse interests of attendees.
The opening ceremony started with a Dhofari folk dance performed by children with disability.
As part of the event, Tariq al Farsi, Chief Executive Officer of National Finance, signed an agreement with Sultan al Amri, CEO of Hyatt Information Technology SAL and founder of the Sign Book Application.
The application developed by Sultan bin Naser al Amri was launched. Sign Book aims to assist persons with hearing disabilities to access and enjoy services provided by various government and private sectors. The application allows an inclusive community by providing services on an equal basis.
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