Latest news with #ChildrenFirstAssociation
Observer
18-05-2025
- Health
- Observer
Prospects for rehab and empowerment of children
Muscat, May 18 As part of the nation's ongoing efforts to promote children's rights and empower children with disabilities, Children First Association is preparing to launch the second edition of the Oman Childhood Conference and Exhibition, scheduled to take place from October 14 to 16 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme: 'Prospects for Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Children with Disabilities in the Era of Emerging Technologies.' HH Sayyidah Dr Mona bint Fahd al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at SQU and Chairperson of the Association, affirmed that this year's edition builds on the success of the first edition, which focused on talented children. She noted that the association is opening a new chapter this year to support children with disabilities, exploring ways to empower them through the latest innovations and technologies that offer them greater opportunities for inclusion, independence and achieving their aspirations. She emphasised that the conference serves as a platform that brings together all stakeholders concerned with childhood affairs. The first edition witnessed the participation of more than 50 local and international institutions from various public and private sectors. She highlighted that the event seeks to strengthen institutional and community cooperation to build an inclusive environment that provides equal opportunities for all children to grow and contribute to national development. Khalid al Matroushi, a member of the association, explained that the conference will address the challenges faced by children with disabilities, while also showcasing initiatives and the latest supporting technologies aimed at empowering them. He also mentioned that the conference will include specialised workshops for children, their families, and professionals in education, health and social services, in addition to displaying the latest technological innovations in the field. Running alongside the conference is a comprehensive exhibition, the first of its kind in Oman, bringing together under one roof institutions, companies, and centres specialising in childhood affairs, along with stores, medical and educational centres, and psychological and educational consultancy organisations. The exhibition will also feature theatrical performances and recreational activities for children. The conference and exhibition will witness broad participation from local and international entities, including the Ministry of Social Development, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health, Sultan Qaboos University, the Oman Human Rights Commission, Unicef, as well as local associations, rehabilitation centres and civil society organisations. Majda al Hinai, a board member of the association, stated that this year's edition focuses particularly on empowering children with disabilities through both the conference and the accompanying exhibition. She noted that the association aims, through this event, to align national policies with global trends to enhance the well-being of this cherished group within the framework of Oman Vision 2040, specifically under the pillar of Human and Society. She added that the conference also seeks to explore and localise emerging technologies that can support and empower children with disabilities, stressing the importance of guiding families and raising community awareness on how to appropriately interact with and support the needs of this group. She further pointed out that the conference will open new horizons for children to showcase their talents and abilities in arts, music, drawing, sports, and culture, aiming to enhance their integration into society and provide them with greater space to express themselves and actively participate in various community activities. The event targets a wide audience, including families, children, school and university students, organisations interested in childhood products and services, tech and environmental companies, banks, online stores and entrepreneurs. Through this event, the Children First Association reaffirms its commitment to continuing its role in building a society more aware of children's rights, and in enhancing children's opportunities to enjoy a better life, driven by its belief that every child possesses the energy to shape a brighter future for Oman.
Times of Oman
18-05-2025
- Health
- Times of Oman
Oman Childhood Conference & Expo to kick off in October
Muscat: The second edition of Oman Childhood Conference & Expo will kick off on 14 October, organised by the 'Children First Association* under the theme: 'Horizons of Rehabilitation and Empowerment for People with Disabilities in the Era of Emerging Technologies." This event aligns with ongoing efforts to support and empower children in the Sultanate of Oman, particularly those with disabilities, in line with the pillars of Oman Vision 2040, and will run for three days. HH Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al Said, Chairperson of the Children First Association, stated during a press conference held by the association today that this conference builds on the success of its first edition, which focused on gifted children in Oman, emphasising the importance of discovering and nurturing them as a national wealth and strategic investment for the future. She added: 'This year, we open a new window to support a group dear to us all—children with disabilities—exploring empowerment opportunities through modern technologies that enable rehabilitation, inclusion, and independence." She noted that the first edition of the Oman Childhood Conference & Expo was a major success, serving as a platform for engagement among stakeholders in child welfare and relevant segments of society. It featured participation from over 50 exhibitors from within Oman and abroad, including government and private sector institutions. On his turn, Khalid Saif Al Matrushi, a member of the Children First Association, highlighted the objectives of the second edition, which focuses on challenges facing childhood and opens broad horizons for rehabilitation and empowerment using cutting-edge technologies. This comes amid growing institutional and societal commitment to building an inclusive environment that meets the needs of all children and provides them with equal opportunities for growth, development, and contribution to the nation's progress. He stated that the conference aims to raise societal awareness about the rights of children with disabilities, present scientific and practical insights into their integration into society, examine key challenges they face, and highlight the efforts of government and private institutions, as well as higher education entities, in this field. He added that the conference includes training workshops for children, their families, and professionals in education, health, and social services, alongside showcasing the latest assistive technologies for empowering children with disabilities. Al Matrushi pointed out that the conference will be accompanied by a comprehensive exhibition—the first of its kind in Oman—bringing together under one roof all institutions, companies, and centers concerned with childhood affairs, including medical and educational centers, rehabilitation institutions, educational and psychological consultancies, as well as entertainment activities and theatrical performances for children. He pointed out that the conference and exhibition will see participation from several government and international entities, including the Ministry of Social Development, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, Sultan Qaboos University, the Omani Human Rights Commission, UNICEF, alongside numerous civil society associations, rehabilitation centers, and NGOs. The event targets a broad segment of society, including children and their families, school and kindergarten students, higher education institutions, companies specialising in childhood products, training and entertainment centers, as well as environmental and tech institutions, banks, e-commerce platforms, and startup entrepreneurs. He affirmed the Children First Association's commitment to its pioneering role in supporting childhood in Oman, continuously working to build a society more aware of children's rights and better equipped to empower them and help them reach their full potential. The Oman Childhood Conference & Expo serves as a leading national and international platform that enhances the quality of life for children with disabilities by focusing on challenges, exploring opportunities, and proposing innovative solutions. Through this conference, the Children First Association seeks to empower children with disabilities and their caregivers by strengthening partnerships, exchanging expertise, and showcasing best practices and supportive technologies—contributing to social justice and comprehensive development.
Muscat Daily
07-05-2025
- Health
- Muscat Daily
MoH launches national health drive for women, children
Muscat – Ministry of Health (MoH) launched a national campaign on Wednesday to promote public health for women and children in North Sharqiyah, reflecting the sultanate's ongoing commitment to maternal and child health. Held in collaboration with Ministry of Information and Children First Association, the campaign aims to raise awareness on preventive, therapeutic and promotional healthcare services, while reducing maternal and child morbidity and mortality. It follows a series of preparatory meetings and field visits that began across Oman in June 2024. The campaign launch, held under the patronage of H H Sayyida Dr Mona bint Fahd bin Mahmoud al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and Chairperson of Children First Association, brought together dignitaries, international representatives and public health experts. Dr Ahmed bin Saeed al Saeedi, Director General of Health Services in North Sharqiyah, highlighted the progress made through national initiatives like the National Maternity and Child Health Programme, the Expanded Immunisation Programme, and early screening programmes for cervical and breast cancer. Saeedi noted significant improvements in key health indicators in the governorate, including a drop in maternal mortality to 17.5 per 100,000 live births and a decrease in under-five mortality to 11.1 per 1,000 live births. Early pregnancy registration reached 90% in 2024, up from 80% in 2022, while anaemia among pregnant women fell to 19% from 21.8% two years earlier. He also informed about an expansion of maternity clinics staffed by trained midwives, improved detection of congenital anomalies and increased infertility care in primary healthcare centres. He cited the example of Ibra Hospital which has conducted IVF procedures for 35 cases, with three successful outcomes reported. On the child health front, the mortality rate in the governorate dropped from 62 to 36 in the last five years, while immunisation coverage increased to 99.8%. More than 9,000 women have accessed early breast cancer screening since 2021, and breastfeeding counselling clinics have been established to enhance maternal support. 'Community engagement is vital,' Saeedi emphasised, noting ongoing partnerships with Omani Women's Association to deliver awareness programmes across the governorate.
Observer
06-05-2025
- General
- Observer
A pioneering booklet designed to educate children about their rights
In a world increasingly focused on safeguarding children's rights and well-being, Oman's latest initiative exemplifies how national efforts align with global trends to create safer, more informed environments for children. On 30 April, the Children First Association—the Sultanate's leading child advocacy organisation—unveiled its newest educational resource, 'I Am Aware', a pioneering booklet designed to educate children about their rights, personal safety, and how to recognise and respond to abuse. The launch, overseen by Her Highness Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al Said, Chair of the Children First Association, signals a significant leap forward in Oman's ongoing commitment to child protection. The initiative reflects a broader realisation, mirrored in many countries worldwide, that children's rights require proactive, multifaceted approaches rooted in education, awareness, and community involvement. A Growing Global Recognition of Children's Rights Globally, the focus on child protection has been intensifying over recent decades. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), adopted in 1989, remains the cornerstone of international efforts to define and promote children's rights. Countries across continents have committed to ensuring children grow up in environments free from violence, exploitation, and neglect. However, translating these commitments into meaningful local action remains an ongoing challenge. In many parts of the world, children continue to face threats from abuse, trafficking, forced labour, and gender-based violence. Recognising that the knowledge gap often leaves children vulnerable, national governments and NGOs have increasingly adopted educational strategies to empower young people to understand their rights and safety measures. Oman's 'I Am Aware' booklet exemplifies this approach, aligning national efforts with a global movement that values education as a primary tool for protection. It echoes international best practices, such as UNICEF's emphasis on child-friendly materials and interactive learning tools to promote awareness and resilience among children. Innovative Approach in Oman's Child Protection Strategies Developed by Amal bint Khalifa Al-Shamakhiyah, a certified human rights trainer associated with the UN Training and Documentation Centre, 'I Am Aware' introduces an innovative and culturally sensitive approach to child protection. Amal's extensive background in children's rights in Oman has shaped a resource that is both educational and engaging, particularly in addressing sensitive issues like harassment and personal safety. The booklet is designed with colourful illustrations, quizzes, and activities—aimed at making complex topics like personal boundaries accessible to young minds. It encourages open dialogue with parents, teachers, and caregivers, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces where children can voice concerns without fear or shame. This initiative mirrors similar efforts worldwide where organisations are scaling up educational materials tailored for young audiences. For example, in South Africa, projects like 'Talking about Abuse' equip children with age-appropriate information, while in Canada, school-based programmes incorporate interactive modules to teach children about consent and boundaries. The Children First Association views 'I Am Aware' as more than a publication; it is part of a larger movement to foster a culture of awareness, respect, and protection throughout Oman. The organisation invites families, schools, and communities to use the booklet as a resource for building a safer future for every child. Towards a Culture of Awareness and Prevention The broader significance of such initiatives lies in fostering a culture that recognises children's agency and rights. By equipping children with knowledge, Oman is aligning with global trends advocating for comprehensive, rights-based approaches to child safety. Such strategies aim not only to prevent abuse but also to empower children to respond confidently if faced with uncomfortable or dangerous situations. Oman's leadership in this area highlights its commitment to international standards while tailoring solutions to its cultural context. Such efforts are increasingly recognised on the global stage; fostered by partnerships with the UN and other international bodies, Oman's initiatives serve as models for the region. Oman's launch of 'I Am Aware' exemplifies a proactive, culturally sensitive approach to nurturing a global culture of respect, awareness, and safety for children. It underscores the importance of education as a friend rather than a foe in the fight against abuse and exploitation. As nations worldwide strive to meet international standards and uphold their commitments under the UNCRC, Oman's example offers valuable lessons: that safeguarding childhood requires shared vision, concerted action, and innovative solutions.
Muscat Daily
28-04-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Booklet launched on child safety awareness at Muscat book fair
Muscat – Children First Association launched an awareness booklet, I am Aware , on Monday during the 29th Muscat International Book Fair as part of its continuing efforts to advocate child safety and rights. The launch was held under the patronage of H H Sayyida Dr Mona Fahad Mahmood al Said, Assistant Vice-Chancellor of International Cooperation at Sultan Qaboos University and Chairperson of the association. Speaking at the event, H H Sayyida Mona said the association is committed to safeguarding children from all forms of abuse and violence. 'This booklet reflects our continued efforts to educate children and their caregivers through development projects, activities and informative publications,' she said. Designed with child-friendly illustrations, the booklet seeks to raise awareness about harassment and empower children with accessible knowledge. Explaining the core message of the publication, Amal Khalifa al Shamakhiya, a certified human rights trainer from United Nations Training and Documentation Centre and the booklet's author, said, 'The idea behind I am Aware is rooted in the belief that child abuse leaves lasting psychological scars and that silence only deepens the pain.' She added, 'This booklet adopts a simplified, interactive format to teach children about their rights and bodily autonomy, and guides them on what to do if they experience inappropriate behaviour.' Interactive features such as colouring activities and multiple-choice questions have been included to reinforce key concepts. The booklet also offers guidance for parents, educators and caregivers, encouraging open conversations with children about personal safety and boundaries.
