Muscat: Jasour – News Desk
The “Shaghaf” initiative programs for integrating and empowering special needs individuals in Oman, adopted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth in 2024, have created an enabling environment that provides multiple platforms for special needs individuals in various cultural and artistic fields such as reading, literature, visual arts, theater, and other arts through innovative programs and cultural events.
In this regard, Akram bin Saif Al-Maawali, founder of the initiative, explained that the ” Shaghaf Cultural Initiative,” supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, aims to enhance cultural and social equality. It started after individual efforts that lasted for several years and managed to provide multiple platforms for special needs individuals in various cultural and artistic fields such as reading, literature, visual arts, theater, and other arts through innovative programs and cultural events. These initiatives aim to enhance their active participation in both the local and international communities. Since its launch, the initiative has achieved many accomplishments and programs that served this group and gave them the opportunity to develop their skills and showcase their talents in various fields.
He added that the “Shaghaf Initiative” targets special needs individuals by providing cultural and artistic programs and activities in social interactions, allowing special needs individuals to express themselves and engage with their surroundings in these interests. The initiative establishes the principle of engaging special needs individuals in cultural and artistic activities on an equal footing with others. It also includes a range of events aimed at enhancing culture and the arts to enable this group to integrate into society and benefit from all available opportunities.
Quality Programs
Regarding the programs included in the initiative, Al-Maawali said: The initiative included several quality programs organized according to quality standards that align with the principles and objectives of the initiative. The organizers sought to create a new culture in line with Oman’s progress in various fields. These programs are organized through the initiative’s team, with the involvement of special needs individuals to instill the concept of teamwork and volunteering combined with quality and indicators that contribute to achieving its goals.
Among the programs implemented by the initiative over the past years and in 2024 is the “Travel to Horizons” program, one of the most distinguished programs in the Shaghaf initiative. This program provides special needs individuals with the opportunity to travel and participate in international cultural and artistic conferences and exhibitions outside Oman, offering an exciting experience. It helped participants enhance cultural and artistic interaction with others, exchange experiences, and acquire skills according to global standards. The initiative organized the first trip under this program to Qatar, guided by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said.
