Oman Boosts Support for Children with Disabilities Through Ministry Collaboration

Oman's commitment to inclusive education and comprehensive support for children with disabilities is being further strengthened through a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Education and the Association for Children with Disabilities. A recent visit by Dr. Madiha Ahmed Al Shaibani, the Minister of Education, to the Association's headquarters marked a significant step in exploring enhanced educational and rehabilitative services.

During the visit, the Minister gained firsthand insight into the Association's diverse programs and ongoing efforts in rehabilitation and training. She underscored the critical importance of integrating the Ministry's efforts with those of dedicated associations like this one to achieve shared educational and humanitarian goals. Her appreciation for the Association's tireless work highlights the value placed on such organizations within Oman's social framework. Khadija Nasser Al Sa'ati, Chairperson of the Association, affirmed their dedication to providing the best possible services, emphasizing their continuous program development despite challenges, and their reliance on support from both public and private sectors to foster social inclusion.

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She emphasized the importance of integrating efforts between the Ministry and relevant associations to achieve the desired educational and humanitarian objectives, expressing her appreciation for the Association's dedicated work.

From an Omani perspective, this collaboration represents a proactive approach to social welfare and development. The Association for Children with Disabilities, operating eight centers across the Sultanate and serving 361 children, is a vital institution. It caters to children with hearing, intellectual, and motor disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and Down syndrome, aged 4 to 14, with vocational preparation programs extending to age 23. The holistic approach, encompassing educational, rehabilitative, psychological, and social services, along with community awareness initiatives, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and extracurricular activities, is designed to empower these children and foster their integration into society. This focus on nurturing potential and enhancing life skills is a cornerstone of Oman's vision for a compassionate and inclusive society, reflecting a national priority to ensure no segment of the population is left behind.

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Khadija Nasser Al Sa'ati, Chairperson of the Association for Children with Disabilities, affirmed that the Association strives to provide the best possible services for children and their families, and to continue developing its programmes despite challenges, with support from both public and private entities, thereby contributing to enhanced social inclusion.