KUWAIT, Dec 8 (KUNA) -- Kuwait's Minister of Social Affairs, Family, and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah affirmed on Monday that assistive technology has become an essential pillar in empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring their full inclusion in society.
She stressed that Kuwait views this field as a strategic path to improving quality of life and enhancing meaningful participation in national development.
Speaking at the opening of the Second International Conference and Forum for Special Needs Technologies and the 10th International conference on ICT and Accessibility, hosted by Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST) in cooperation with the UN Office in Kuwait, UNESCO, ALECSO, and the Public Authority for Disability Affairs, the minister highlighted progress since last year's inaugural event.
Several recommendations were implemented through KCST initiatives, including specialized training in robotics, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Al-Huwailah underscored the importance of workshops and summer programs that provided hands-on learning experiences and strengthened participants' ability to use technology for innovation and integration.
She praised the role of educational and community institutions working with the Public Authority for Disability to advance national efforts toward inclusion and improve the lives of persons with disabilities, noting that these achievements were made possible through support from Kuwait's wise leadership.
Chairperson of the KCST Board of Trustees Ambassador Nabeela Al-Mulla emphasized that cooperation among state institutions is crucial to achieving inclusive integration, expressing pride in hosting an event attended by international organizations and specialists in disability care.
On his part, KCST President Prof. Khalid Al-Begain told KUNA that the college's vision for supporting persons with disabilities stems from the country's wise leadership, which has spared no effort in providing full support and care for them.
He added that this event builds on last year's inaugural edition, which produced several recommendations and led to a series of specialized initiatives to support and empower persons with disabilities. These included courses in artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity.
He noted that students participating in the opening ceremony showcased distinguished examples of their skills and knowledge in cybersecurity protection. (end) slm.dss