MUSCAT, JAN 16
Oman has made significant strides towards improving the lives of individuals with disabilities. While challenges remain, the commitment to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity is evident through various initiatives and programmes aimed at empowering this often-overlooked segment of society.
One of these rights includes access to rehabilitation programmes and services, such as the Laboratory for Developing Services and Programmes for People with Disabilities, aimed at promoting sustainable development goals and facilitating their integration into society.
In remarks to the Observer, Badr bin Farish al Yahyaei, Assistant Director General of the General Directorate of Persons with Disabilities, said: “The laboratory was established to address challenges related to services and programmes for persons with disabilities, identified through the Forum for Persons with Disabilities. The Ministry recognised the need for the laboratory to collaborate with the Oman Vision 2040 Unit and other relevant authorities to implement sustainable projects and provide the best programmes and services for persons with disabilities. The upcoming second forum for persons with disabilities is scheduled for 2025."
The Sultanate of Oman aims to create an innovative national system for sustainable development, starting with the first forum for persons with disabilities to prepare for the laboratory’s work, focusing on aligning programmes and services with Oman Vision 2040, empowering individuals with disabilities through modern technologies and addressing legislative challenges.
The recent work of the laboratory resulted in 33 projects and initiatives, including 30 empowerment initiatives and three investment opportunities. These initiatives aim to enhance services for persons with disabilities, such as creating a national guide for licensing, classification, and quality standards for entities offering programmes and services for individuals with disabilities. The Ministry of Social Development has partnered with organisations like OPAL and the Al Barwani Charitable Foundation to support these initiatives.
The Ministry of Social Development is leveraging modern assistive technologies to improve rehabilitation programmes and services for individuals with disabilities, providing prosthetic and assistive devices tailored to individual needs.
The Sultanate of Oman is committed to establishing an innovative national system for sustainable development, with a focus on innovation as a key component of its strategic goals. The government prioritises the well-being of individuals with disabilities through specialised centres, educational programmes, legislation and agreements promoting their active participation and integration into society, ensuring they have access to facilities that support a dignified lifestyle.
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