

MUSCAT: The two-day event called the 'Village of Happiness Carnival', marking the International Day for People with Disabilities, was held at the Civil Aviation Club, where numerous children with disabilities enjoyed the festivities.
The event was inaugurated under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Fahd bin Al Julanda al Said, Vice-Chancellor of SQU. The opening ceremony began with a beautiful Dhofari dance performed by children with disabilities affiliated with the Hams Al Atheer Rehab Centre. This was followed by a stage programme led by the brilliant presenter Mohammed bin Mousa al Balushi, a person with physical disabilities, who delivered the welcoming speech. A poetry session was performed by visually impaired children from the Omar bin Al Khattab Institute for the Blind.

HH Sayyidah Hujaija bint Jaifer al Said stated, "This event enhances inclusion and empowerment for people with disabilities. The carnival provides children with disabilities and their families with a variety of educational, interactive and recreational activities. It also allows individuals with disabilities to showcase their creativity and talents. The carnival serves as a platform for parents to interact with one another, sharing their experiences, ideas, and stories about common disability issues."
Sumaira Chowdhury, Unicef Oman Representative, who participated in the event in celebration of World Children's Day, said, "Unicef Oman is honoured to participate in the Village of Happiness Carnival, a remarkable initiative by HH Sayyidah Hujaija al Said to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This event exemplifies the power of inclusivity, engagement and community mobilisation in creating opportunities for children of all abilities to thrive. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every child in Oman can reach their full potential in a nurturing and caring environment."
Approximately 2,000 children from various associations, governmental and private rehabilitation centres serving children with disabilities were invited, as well as children with disabilities from expatriate communities in the Sultanate of Oman, including those from the Indian and Pakistani schools.

The event was organised by HH Sayyidah Hujaija al Said in collaboration with the Civil Aviation Club.
The Village of Happiness is an entertainment, educational and awareness carnival aimed at providing a safe recreational space for people with disabilities. The event also celebrated the International Day for People with Disabilities, creating a joyful day while considering their needs and abilities. It aimed to provide a fun-filled experience, allowing individuals with disabilities to enjoy various interactive educational and recreational activities, showcasing their abilities and talents.
The carnival featured several activities, including the presence of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) with a fire truck and an ambulance, conducting interactive educational activities for people with disabilities and their families.
Educational activities included a science lab, board games, arts and crafts, and virtual reality games. Activities for children included luxury car rides, motorbike rides, magic shows hosted by global magician Moein al Bastaki from the UAE, horseback riding, a petting zoo, dog shows, face painting, henna art, cartoon character appearances, circus performances and a section for leading Omani SMEs in the children's entertainment business, providing recreational activities and services free of charge. Food and beverage stalls were also provided free of charge to all attendees.
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