Al-Huwaila: Integrating People with Disabilities is a National Responsibility and Humanitarian Message... Education is a Right for All
Press coverage 1 newspapers covered this event: Al-Qabas →
Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila affirmed during the Arab Open University's celebration in Kuwait that integrating people with disabilities represents a national responsibility and a humanitarian message, emphasizing the importance of providing a suitable environment and equal opportunities to empower them.
Translated by Qiyas from الأنباء — Original source
Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, Minister of Social Affairs, Labor, and Social Development, affirmed that integrating persons with disabilities into society constitutes a national responsibility and a humanitarian mission, emphasizing that they are key partners in achieving sustainable development and possess the will and capabilities to contribute to building their nations, provided that an enabling environment and equal opportunities are available.
This statement came during a speech delivered by Al-Huwail yesterday morning at the Arab Open University’s celebration of its founder’s Day in Kuwait, held under the theme “Empowering Persons with Disabilities Toward an Inclusive and Sustainable Society.” The event was attended by University Director Dr. Salah Al-Humaid, Sheikh Sheikha Abdullah Al-Sabah, and a number of public figures, representatives of government entities, civil society organizations, and stakeholders interested in disability issues.
Al-Huwail noted that the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, founder of the Arab Open University, believed that the strength of societies is measured by their ability to accommodate, integrate, and appreciate the potential of all their members, particularly persons with disabilities. She pointed out that his vision extended beyond providing access to education, encompassing the development of technology and open learning tailored to their needs and enhancing their independence.
She added that Kuwait, under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, places great emphasis on the rights of persons with disabilities, in line with its humanitarian approach and commitment to promoting social justice and equal opportunities.
Al-Huwail reaffirmed the Ministry of Social Affairs’ commitment to strengthening partnerships among government, non-governmental, and academic institutions to facilitate the integration of persons with disabilities at legislative, employment, and societal levels. She called on universities to enhance their role in supporting inclusive education, developing academic and training programs, and encouraging scientific research and innovation in assistive technologies, thereby expanding opportunities for this group in education and employment.
Al-Huwail concluded her speech by commending the efforts of the Arab Open University and the organizers of the celebration, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts and highlighting the issues of persons with disabilities, as a tribute to the legacy and humanitarian and developmental mission of the university’s founder.
