DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is today observing International Day of Persons with Disabilities with an event at ‘Muaither Care and Rehabilitation Center’ in Doha.
Ambassadors, HMC officials and physicians, and people with disabilities receiving rehabilitation services at the centre will attend the event which aims to increase awareness of people with disabilities and their rights.
Dr Wafaa Al Yazeedi (pictured), Head, Medical Rehabilitation, HMC, and Medical Director, community-based rehabilitation compound, Muaither, will speak on the theme of the event — Sustainable Development: A Technology Promise. It is aligned with efforts to remove obstacles to the integration of people with disabilities into the community. It also discusses breaking down communication barriers through technology.
“Activities, including discussions, awareness campaigns and exhibitions of works by people with disabilities will be held. There will also be a focus on issues relevant to them and their role in the development of their community,” Dr Al Yazeedi said. “The event will be held at Rumailah Hospital, where 200 people with disabilities are receiving specialised care. It will also be observed at the compound where 74 people with permanent disabilities live in what is classed as a home away from home.”
Activities will form part of a rehabilitation program sponsored and supported by Qatar League Corporation, University of Calgary, Qatar, and Qatar Assistive Technology Center.
They attract the support of citizens and residents who often participate in activities to showcase contributions of people with disabilities to their communities. Meetings to exchange views and highlight residents’ skills, interests and expectations are also held. “The event will highlight key themes around the importance of supporting people with disabilities. These include effective action to incorporate their contributions whenever possible and enhancing their role in society to have an equal voice. It will also highlight progress achieved in overcoming impediments to implementation of policies on rights and entitlements of persons with disabilities,” Dr Al Yazeedi said. The Peninsula
