MUSCAT: Oman attaches great importance to empowering persons with disabilities through the establishment of a specialised sector within the Ministry of Social Development. This sector is tasked with developing rehabilitation services and programmes aligned with the national vision to build an inclusive society that ensures equal opportunities for all.
Modern technologies have become a cornerstone of these efforts, offering innovative solutions that enhance the cognitive, functional and professional capabilities of persons with disabilities. Such technologies enable them to participate effectively in society and contribute to national development within the framework of digital transformation.
Mohammed bin Ahmed al Mahrouqi, Director-General of the General Directorate of Persons with Disabilities at the Ministry of Social Development, affirmed that adopting modern technologies in rehabilitation programmes is among the ministry’s main priorities. These technologies help empower individuals to integrate fully into society and acquire essential life and work skills.
Al Mahrouqi said the ministry is committed to facilitating access for children with disabilities and their families to prosthetic devices and assistive technologies that enhance independence and improve quality of life. He noted that the ministry also seeks to employ artificial intelligence in rehabilitation and educational programmes through cooperation with entities such as the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. This cooperation aims to enhance cognitive and motor skills, tailor rehabilitation programmes to individual abilities, and provide early vocational training and digital tools for teachers and specialists.
Highlighting key initiatives, Al Mahrouqi mentioned the launch of the 'Ta’heel' platform in 2024 — a national digital project designed to streamline rehabilitation services by linking all relevant entities within a unified system. The platform provides a comprehensive database that supports strategic planning, facilitates beneficiary registration and enables informed decision-making through accurate statistical analyses.
He also announced that the ministry is preparing to launch the National Registry for Persons with Disabilities, a comprehensive database that will organise and enhance the provision of services and programmes, improving planning efficiency and overall programme quality.
Al Mahrouqi further noted that in 2023, the ministry implemented a laboratory for developing services and programmes for persons with disabilities, which identified sector challenges and proposed innovative solutions. Among its notable outcomes was the initiative 'Providing Assistive Devices and Technologies for Students with Visual and Hearing Impairments', ensuring equitable access to education and skill development.
He emphasised that the use of assistive technologies in rehabilitation not only strengthens communication, mobility and perception, but also promotes self-reliance and broader social inclusion.
Regarding the family’s role, Al Mahrouqi stressed that families act as primary supporters by fostering an encouraging environment, guiding the responsible use of technology and helping track progress. Society, he added, also plays a vital role by promoting awareness, providing inclusive digital access, and supporting initiatives that enable persons with disabilities to participate actively in educational, social, and economic life. - ONA
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