In celebration of the International Day of People with Disabilities Dhofar University was established to create a dictionary of sign language

‘A Day to All’ was the emblem of Dhofar University’s celebration of the International Day of People with Disabilities on December 3, 2023, in the Conference Hall under the auspices of the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Amer bin Ali Al Rawas. The event is an indication of the partnership between the University and the General Directorate of Social Development in Dhofar Governorate. Mr. Mohammad bin Humaid Al-Kalbani, Director of the General Directorate of Social Development in the Governorate remarked that the celebration of this day is a moment of reflection for countries and institutions to assess what they have provided to this group in various aspects. Mr Al-Kalbani further added that the event reflects the Sultanate’s interest in improving the quality of the services provided to people with disabilities, by reviewing legislations and regulations and promoting social care services including education, inclusion as well as rehabilitation services. He promised that the coming years will witness significant changes in all aspects to respond to the needs of this important segment of society, thanking Dhofar University for its cooperation and support.

In his speech, Dr. Khalid Almashikhi, Dean of the College of Arts and Applied Sciences, explained how the University pledged to offer quality education to students with disabilities in compliance with Oman’s Vision 2040 in the Domain of Mankind and Society. This was reflected in the university’s strategic plan 2013-2021 particularly Goal 7 which provided for playing a leading role in the education of people with disabilities. Dr Almashikhi added that the university has currently 47 students, both male and female, with three types of disability: mobility disability, visual impairment, and hearing impairment in all specialties at the College of Arts and Applied Sciences, the College of Commerce and Business Administration and the College of Law. This was achieved as a result of continuous communication and fruitful cooperation with the Directorate of Social Development and the Directorate of Education in Dhofar Governorate. The university has also maintained communication and follow-up with parents and constant collaboration with competent societies for the provision of needed equipment and specialized social service workers.

Dhofar University has also shown keenness in involving students with disability in academic partnerships brokered by the university including a research project funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation that aims to produce a sign language dictionary for students studying computer science. Sheikh Abdullah Al Shahri delivered a speech pointing out that disability is a blessing in disguise and that people with disabilities will be rewarded for their patience. He further clarified that Islam has pioneered addressing the issues of people with disabilities and representing them in administrative bodies, providing the story of Mu’ath Bin Jabal as an example. Mr Abd Al Hafidh Al Rawas from the Al Noor Society for Blind Individuals at Dhofar Governorate has expressed his pride in holding a master’s degree from Dhofar University.

The celebration continued by highlighting the contribution of people with disability by Bayan Al Nahdi being a presenter in the ceremony as a representative of Students with Disability Support Services of Dhofar University. At the end of the ceremony, Dr. Al Mashikhi thanked the Al Noor Society for the Blind, The People with Disability Society, the Directorate of Culture, Sports, and Youth, the Directorate of Education, and the Directorate of Social Development in Dhofar Governorate for their joint efforts and cooperation with CAAS and SWDSS unit at Dhofar University.