MUSCAT: The 'Ray of Hope' festival, organised by the Association for Children with Disabilities, opened on Monday at the Oman Automobile Association in Muscat Governorate. The festival will run until October 30.
The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development for Family and Community Development Affairs.
Khadija bint Nasser Al Saati, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Association for Children with Disabilities, said empowering, rehabilitating and identifying the abilities of children with disabilities was not the responsibility of a single institution, but a shared national responsibility requiring coordinated efforts and collaboration across sectors.
She highlighted the association’s continued humanitarian mission through rehabilitation programmes and services for children and their families. Every child, she said, has abilities that deserve nurturing, talents waiting to be discovered and opportunities to contribute actively to Oman’s future.
The opening ceremony featured a visual presentation showcasing inspiring success stories, a folk arts performance by the 'We Create with Disability' group, and the play 'No to Bullying', presented by the Saham Rehabilitation Centre.
The festival features a range of community and cultural events, interactive and awareness booths, and an accompanying exhibition showcasing productive families and people with disabilities. Government and private sector entities are participating in the event, which also offers recreational activities for children and families.
The festival forms part of the association’s efforts to raise community awareness of the rights of people with disabilities, highlight their abilities and potential, promote social inclusion, and showcase its mission, programmes and achievements. - ONA
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