NHRC organises interactive dialogue on ASD and CP
Doha
The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) organised an interactive dialogue on the particularity of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Cerebral Palsy (CP), with the participation of the Supreme Judicial Council and the Ministries of Interior; Education and Higher Education; Social Development and Family; and Public Health, along with the Public Prosecution and a number of parents.
At the outset of his speech, NHRC Legal Affairs Department Director, Nasser Marzouk Sultan Al Marri expressed gratitude to the parents of children with ASD and CP for their deep concern for their children's surroundings and future, in addition to those parents' continuous efforts to provide the best means and supportive approaches to meet their children's needs, adding that those parents embody true unconditional love and steadfast belief in their children's abilities, despite challenges.
Al Marri expressed hope that this inaugural dialogue would serve as an effective platform to shed light on the core challenges facing children with ASD and CP, discussing optimal ways to address them, and coming up with clear recommendations that would contribute to removing the obstacles facing this group.
He also hoped that the interactive dialogue's recommendations receive serious follow-up and prompt response from concerned authorities.
For his part, NHRC's Legislation, Legal Studies and Research Department Head Abdulrahman Al Hashemi said that this meeting aims to address ASD and CP and to highlight the current challenges facing this group, emphasising the importance of proposing solutions based on expertise, knowledge, and best practices in order to reach constructive visions that pave the way for broader prospects in addressing these vital issues.
Al Hashemi indicated that this interactive dialogue is part of NHRC's 2024-2030 Strategic Plan and reflects its conviction in the importance of community partnership based on human rights' principles and values, as well as NHRC's responsibility to respond to complaints and petitions it receives, ensuring coordination and integration with the relevant humanitarian and social authorities.
Participants in the interactive dialogue recommended addressing the training and rehabilitation gap that exists for persons with disabilities over the age of 21 by establishing specialised centres for that purpose, which would offer comprehensive programs according to the latest international standards, with those programs including occupational and physical therapy in addition to vocational training.
Until such proposed government centres are established, participants called for a transitional period that would see persons with disabilities who are over the age of 21 receive temporary programs at the Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities that include training as well as occupational and physical therapies.
Moreover, participants also suggested that a partnership is created between Shafallah Centre and private centres to provide this segment of society with joint training and rehabilitation services during this period.
They further suggested that specialists from private centres make regular visits to Shafallah Centre for training and the exchange of expertise and advocated the provision of educational vouchers to cover the cost of training and rehabilitation at private centres for cases that require these services, thus, ensuring that persons with disabilities receive needed support regardless of their families' financial capabilities.
The participants in the interactive dialogue also called for creating a guide on ASD and a hotline to receive complaints and provide psychological support to individuals and their families.
They highlighted the importance of encouraging partnerships with the private sector to develop training and rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual needs of this group in line with labour market demands.
Participants also recommended launching awareness campaigns to emphasise the importance of continuous rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities and to showcase success stories that demonstrate how such programs can transform lives.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Qatar Tribune
4 days ago
- Qatar Tribune
NHRC organises interactive dialogue on ASD and CP
QNA Doha The National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) organised an interactive dialogue on the particularity of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Cerebral Palsy (CP), with the participation of the Supreme Judicial Council and the Ministries of Interior; Education and Higher Education; Social Development and Family; and Public Health, along with the Public Prosecution and a number of parents. At the outset of his speech, NHRC Legal Affairs Department Director, Nasser Marzouk Sultan Al Marri expressed gratitude to the parents of children with ASD and CP for their deep concern for their children's surroundings and future, in addition to those parents' continuous efforts to provide the best means and supportive approaches to meet their children's needs, adding that those parents embody true unconditional love and steadfast belief in their children's abilities, despite challenges. Al Marri expressed hope that this inaugural dialogue would serve as an effective platform to shed light on the core challenges facing children with ASD and CP, discussing optimal ways to address them, and coming up with clear recommendations that would contribute to removing the obstacles facing this group. He also hoped that the interactive dialogue's recommendations receive serious follow-up and prompt response from concerned authorities. For his part, NHRC's Legislation, Legal Studies and Research Department Head Abdulrahman Al Hashemi said that this meeting aims to address ASD and CP and to highlight the current challenges facing this group, emphasising the importance of proposing solutions based on expertise, knowledge, and best practices in order to reach constructive visions that pave the way for broader prospects in addressing these vital issues. Al Hashemi indicated that this interactive dialogue is part of NHRC's 2024-2030 Strategic Plan and reflects its conviction in the importance of community partnership based on human rights' principles and values, as well as NHRC's responsibility to respond to complaints and petitions it receives, ensuring coordination and integration with the relevant humanitarian and social authorities. Participants in the interactive dialogue recommended addressing the training and rehabilitation gap that exists for persons with disabilities over the age of 21 by establishing specialised centres for that purpose, which would offer comprehensive programs according to the latest international standards, with those programs including occupational and physical therapy in addition to vocational training. Until such proposed government centres are established, participants called for a transitional period that would see persons with disabilities who are over the age of 21 receive temporary programs at the Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disabilities that include training as well as occupational and physical therapies. Moreover, participants also suggested that a partnership is created between Shafallah Centre and private centres to provide this segment of society with joint training and rehabilitation services during this period. They further suggested that specialists from private centres make regular visits to Shafallah Centre for training and the exchange of expertise and advocated the provision of educational vouchers to cover the cost of training and rehabilitation at private centres for cases that require these services, thus, ensuring that persons with disabilities receive needed support regardless of their families' financial capabilities. The participants in the interactive dialogue also called for creating a guide on ASD and a hotline to receive complaints and provide psychological support to individuals and their families. They highlighted the importance of encouraging partnerships with the private sector to develop training and rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual needs of this group in line with labour market demands. Participants also recommended launching awareness campaigns to emphasise the importance of continuous rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities and to showcase success stories that demonstrate how such programs can transform lives.
Qatar Tribune
6 days ago
- Qatar Tribune
MoM raises awareness about harmful effects of plastic bags
QNA Doha The Ministry of Municipality, represented by Al Khor and Al Thakhira Municipality, organised an awareness event on the occasion of International Plastic Bag Free Day, which falls on July 3 of each year. The event was held in cooperation with Al Meera Consumer Goods Company and Al Rayan Bank as part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to reduce the use of plastic bags. In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Municipality explained that the event aimed to highlight the harmful effects of plastic bags on the environment and encourage community members to adopt environmentally friendly alternatives, in support of national efforts to achieve sustainability and preserve natural resources for future generations. The Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Health Control Departments in all municipalities, has been implementing Ministerial Resolution No. 143 of 2022 regarding the regulations governing the use of plastic bags since November 15, 2022. This resolution prohibits institutions, companies, and shopping centres from using single-use plastic bags and encourages the use of biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives. The ministerial resolution issued in mid-June complements the ministry's efforts to codify the legislative system related to solid waste management.
Qatar Tribune
30-06-2025
- Qatar Tribune
Katara Tech Forum explores autism support
QNA Doha The Cultural Village Foundation Katara launched the 24th edition of the Katara Tech Forum under the theme Autism Spectrum Disorder: Innovation, Inclusion, and Quality of Life on Monday. The event was held in the presence of Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family HE Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim Al Thani along with a lineup of officials, experts, and pioneers in the field. Director of Information Systems Department at Katara and Chairman of the Forum Thamer Al Qadi emphasised that Katara Tech Forum, organised in collaboration with the International Business Council, serves as a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise on autism spectrum disorder. He noted that the forum's three main pillars reflect its commitment to seeking practical and innovative solutions to enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families. 'Our aim through this edition is to present high-quality content that explores the latest technologies and methods that support the inclusion of individuals with autism in society and enhance their overall quality of life,' he said. For his part, President of the International Business Council and General Coordinator of the Forum Dr. Mohsen Ali Al Ajmi highlighted the importance of raising awareness about autism, stressing that individuals on the spectrum possess unique abilities that must be identified and nurtured. Honourary President of the Arab Union for Private Schools Dr. Khamis Al Ajmi praised Katara's efforts in supporting autism-related issues, stating that children with autism carry within them creative emotions and thoughts that need to be heard and understood. The forum featured a series of key scientific and discussion sessions, including one on treating autism spectrum disorder and ADHD using advanced American technologies. It also addressed mechanisms for enhancing adaptability and effective integration into society. Among the highlights of the event was the launch of the 'I Need' app, specifically developed to support the needs of children with autism. Discussions also focused on the role of educational farms in improving their quality of life, as well as the benefits of imaginative and tech-based play as effective tools for engaging with autistic children. One of the most notable innovations showcased at the forum was the 'Nasem Watch', designed for Alzheimer's patients. Other sessions examined the role of traditional and digital media in fostering a responsible narrative around autism-related issues. Speakers underscored that autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that begins in early childhood, affecting a person's interaction with others, communication, and behaviour. It is characterised by challenges in social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication, repetitive behaviours, and restricted interests. The forum will continue today with a focus on advanced topics aimed at supporting and empowering children with autism. The second day will highlight modern strategies for comprehensive care, as well as effective physical training programmes that help improve their motor and social skills. Sessions will also explore the use of virtual reality technologies to enhance children's interaction with their environment and aid in the acquisition of new skills. The forum will further address the importance of healthy nutrition in modifying the behaviour of autistic children and how dietary habits can positively influence their behavioral responses. Special attention will be given to showcasing best practices for integrating children with autism into mainstream schools, including a notable session on preparing children mentally and emotionally through daily routines and sports-based empowerment.
