Software giant Microsoft and MADA Assistive Technology Centre have together formed “Imkaan”, a programme that brings the benefits of IT to disabled people in Qatar.
The joint collaboration, named after the Arabic word for possibility, will facilitate greater digital inclusion to people with disabilities through provision, education and innovation. The initiative also aims to raise awareness around the potential of technology in creating opportunities for people with disabilities at work, school, and in social settings.
Mohammad Hamoudi, country manager at Microsoft Qatar, says: “Empowering people through the use of technology and providing the opportunity to do so is something Microsoft is committed to, and by joining up with MADA we are able to better empower disabled people in the country. With the Centre’s extensive work in Qatar and the organisation’s relationship with the disabled community, we have been able to place the technology that will provide new opportunities for maximum accessibility. Training of IT professionals on ensuring access to ICT for all is also core to aiding the initiative to reach the largest number of people.”
David Banes, Deputy CEO of MADA Assistive Technology Centre, says, “MADA works to provide assistive technology solutions for people with disabilities, and by working in collaboration with Microsoft the organisation can deliver even more complete solutions. “We have a vision of a world with ICT for all, and with support from Microsoft we can help make this come more of a reality in Qatar. Not only will the initiative help on an immediate level, but the innovation and development elements will also help to build a continued solid core for ICT for people with disabilities for the future too.”