Muscat – The Association of Early Intervention for Children with Disabilities’ new headquarters in Airport Heights was inaugurated on Monday at a ceremony held under the patronage of H E Dr Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, and graced by H E Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development.

Built for a total capacity of 400 children, the new centre is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including nine day-care classrooms, seven vocational training classrooms, and a rehabilitation department consisting of physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupation therapy, behavioural therapy and special education.

The centre also features supportive services such as sensory integration rooms, darkroom, observation rooms, specialised sports facilities and aqua therapy services; paid activities such as gait analysis and 3D insole production services; and a shop for assistive devices.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Sabah al Bahlani, CEO of the association, said, “Our vision is to reach every child with developmental challenges so that they can live to their maximum potential with the highest possible degree of independence and inclusion in Omani society. Our mission is to preserve the right of children with disabilities to live with dignity, equality and quality of life.”

She added that though the centre has volunteers, it needs more trained professionals to deal with the children.

“Opening of the new centre paves the way for the association to become a national centre in providing rehabilitation, social education and training services to children with disabilities and their families across Oman,” Sabah said.

The association expressed its gratitude to the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, bp Oman, CC Energy Development Oman, Oxy Oman, Daleel Petroleum, OQ and Petroleum Development Oman for their support.

On the occasion, Dr Ali al Rajhi, Director General of Planning and Studies in the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, said, “This project reflects our priorities at the ministry and Oman Vision 2040 for a decent and sustainable life for all, including children and persons with disabilities. The centre offers a comprehensive range of services to support children with disabilities and their families in facing their challenges and gives these children equal opportunities to thrive, learn and become an integral part of society.”