Doha:Qatar University: In collaboration with the Al Noor Center for the Blind, Qatar University (QU) hosted a seminar focused on the rights of blind individuals to engage actively in society.

According to Qatar News Agency, the seminar, titled 'The White Cane and the Right to Independence,' was organized by QU's Inclusion and Special Needs Support Center in observance of International White Cane Day. It explored the concept of independence from various angles, including orientation and mobility, legislative and legal frameworks, human rights, and inclusive higher education.

The seminar addressed four main themes: safe orientation and mobility techniques; the role of independence in human dignity and equality; the importance of legislative frameworks, legal protection, and institutional responsibility; and strategies for inclusive higher education, including the use of assistive technology.

Dr. Haya Al Kuwari, Manager of the Inclusion and Special Needs Support Center, emphasized QU's dedication to creating an educational environment that ensures equal opportunities for everyone. She highlighted that independence involves more than just service provision; it requires creating an enabling environment that permits students to access education, facilities, and information and to make informed decisions.

Shouq Al Shahrani, head of the inclusion and special needs department, noted that inclusive higher education is a collective responsibility. It involves the collaboration of faculty, staff, and students, as well as the integration of assistive technology. She stressed the importance of involving visually impaired individuals in identifying their needs and developing suitable solutions.