The Oman School Sports Association, in cooperation with the Directorate General of Education in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate, organised a festival to promote sports participation among students with disabilities.
Held at the Recreational Centre in the Wilayat of Manah, the event brought together 107 male and female students from intellectual and hearing inclusion classes. It was held under the patronage of Dr Sultan bin Khamis al Yahyai, Director General of Scouts, Guides and Student Activities, and attended by Hilal bin Abdullah al Alawi, Assistant Director General of the Directorate General of Education in Al Dakhiliyah. A team of 35 organisers supported the festival.
The initiative aimed to provide an inclusive sporting and recreational environment, helping students develop physical and social skills, build confidence and independence, and encourage teamwork and positive competition.
The programme featured athletics, mini-games, boccia and bowling, alongside recreational activities such as plaster colouring, face painting, henna art and a popcorn corner.
Participants were divided into six groups according to age, gender and disability category, accommodating students under and over 10 with hearing or intellectual disabilities. Activities were organised across four rotating stations, with each session lasting 30 minutes, allowing participants to experience different sporting and recreational activities.
The festival highlighted the importance of inclusive physical education and equal opportunities for students with disabilities. Through adapted sporting activities, students can improve their physical abilities, strengthen social interaction and develop greater confidence and independence.
The event also underscored the importance of cooperation between sports associations, educational directorates and schools in expanding access to sporting opportunities and encouraging students of all abilities to participate in school and community life.
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