DOHA: Qtel and Vodafone Qatar have joined hands to help people with disabilities get connected with the digital world through assistive technology software and accessories, specialised handsets, website accessibility and greater access to their facilities.
Mada (Qatar Assistive Technology Center) is to launch a nationwide accessibility initiative in partnership with Qtel and Vodafone Qatar.
The initiative, named "Connected," will ensure that people with disabilities do not have to pay more than others to use mobile telecommunications technology.
Faleh Al Naemi, CEO of Mada, said the programme is part of their ongoing efforts for industry partners to "build an accessible ICT ecosystem in Qatar."
Mada is an initiative of the Supreme Council of Information and Technology (ictQatar), Vodafone, Qtel, Qatar National Bank, and Microsoft. Based on a vision of a world with information communication technology for all (ICT for all), Mada provides assistive technology solutions to people with disabilities.
"Mada is pleased to see Qtel and Vodafone coming together to support this important project. This is a true reflection of the role that telecommunications operators can play in building an inclusive digital society in Qatar," Al Naem said.
Nasser Marafih, chief executive officer of Qtel, said, "Telecommunications transforms people's lives, and that's just how we see our broader mission at Qtel. Working with Mada, we are realising an important corporate goal of providing access for all, making the latest assistive communications technologies readily and easily accessible and affordable for people with disabilities throughout Qatar."
"As Qatar aspires to build a fully connected society, Vodafone is proud to leverage its expertise through our partnership with Mada," said Matthew Harrison-Harvey, the legal, regulatory and external relations director at Vodafone Qatar. "It is part of our responsibility to contribute by making communication more accessible for everyone. This includes handsets, tariffs and services that are specifically tailored to people with disabilities."
Over the coming weeks, people with disabilities in Qatar will get access to a wide range of affordable services and products.
© The Peninsula 2010
