Abu Dhabi Municipality has launched a campaign to encourage those with hearing disabilities to read books.
It has teamed up with Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority and Abu Dhabi Centre for Special Needs in the “Reading a Story in Sign Language” programme.
“The step also aims to promote the reading habit among people with hearing disabilities, as this habit has a positive bearing on providing them with linguistic skills and experience,” said Abdullah Al Junaibi, director of community services at the municipality.
The initiative, which will take place at Al Bahia Park Library, includes competitions, story-reading workshops and giveaways for hearing-impaired people.
The sign-language programme follows a previous municipality event, “Reading a Story at the Park”.
“These events contribute to motivating students to read, improve their language and develop their skills,” Mr Al Junaibi said.
He said the initiative was part of a larger programme to use public venues for community events, rather than just as recreational or entertainment areas.
The campaign is part of a nationwide drive to offer more services to people with special needs.
In March, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre will host the ABILITIESme conference to raise awareness about issues concerning people with special needs in the region.
Schools and universities have also taken steps to improve services and to better integrate students with special needs into mainstream education.
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