Social development ministry organises forum on techniques of dealing with the disabled

Oman's Ministry of Social Development hosted a public awareness forum focused on "Techniques of dealing with people with disabilities" as part of its "Purple Saturday" initiative. The event sought to cultivate a culture of social inclusion and highlight the rights of individuals with disabilities. Representatives from government and private sectors attended, with the goal of encouraging more inclusive practices. A key discussion point was the "social model of disability," emphasizing the need for comprehensive inclusion to ensure equal opportunities and facilitate independence for people with disabilities in all aspects of life. Majda Sabir Al Balushi, a researcher in guidance and counseling, presented a working paper stressing the importance of integrating global principles into public facilities, services, products, and work environments from the outset. She also highlighted professional etiquette, advocating for respectful communication, the use of approved terminology, and the avoidance of pity or discriminatory language. Al Balushi further emphasized respecting the privacy and independence of individuals with disabilities, noting that assistive devices should be considered part of their personal space.

“

The researcher laid emphasis on professional etiquette in dealing with people with disabilities. She stressed the importance of applying correct methods of communicating with the disabled, including the use of approved legal terminology and avoiding concepts or phrases that imply pity or discrimination. She also called for respecting the privacy and independence of people with disabilities. This, she observed, includes considering the assistive devices and tools used by people with disabilities as part of their privacy.