Adec hosts reading competition for the blind

The competition was conducted in Arabic as part of the Abu Dhabi Education Council¿s Everybody Reads campaign.

ABU DHABI // A Braille reading competition organised by the Zayed Higher Organisation has been won by a Grade 3 pupil from Al Ain.

The competition was conducted in Arabic as part of the Abu Dhabi Education Council's (Adec) Everybody Reads campaign. Ghaith Mohammed Salem Al Ghafli of the Saladin School in Al Ain came first, followed by Omar Fayez Al Amri of the Al Tamyoz School.

The competition was organised to encourage the visually impaired to read, enrich their vocabulary, develop their skills and explore their literary talents.

The contest was divided into four  levels – from KG to Cycle 3 – and children had to read and answer multiple-choice questions in the rounds.

The Zayed Higher Organisation for Humanitarian Care and Special Needs helps promote the use of Braille for cultural and language development and understanding of the blind, and supports its integration in schools and the workplace.

"Our students have been given modern tools and equipment while new school facilities are equipped with necessary requirements that promote easy access for special-needs students in schools," said Fatima Ahmad Al Kaabi, head of special education services at Adec's Al Ain Regional Office.

Ghaith's father said it was a positive and encouraging experience for his son.

"Allowing my son to participate in this contest has helped him gain more self-confidence," the father said.

"It has encouraged him to become more interactive and social.

"I will continue to support my son in his passion to read, since it helps achieve excellence and distinction."