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Mada - Qatar Assistive Technology Center launched Tuesday a digital platform for its Advisory Team for persons with disabilities and their families, offering a dedicated channel for participation in consultations on policies, services and initiatives related to persons with disabilities, their families and representative organizations. Mada CEO Maha Mohammed Al Mansouri told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the platform allows users to review consultation topics and contribute their views, experiences and expertise.The platform also allows government entities and institutions to submit issues within their areas of responsibility for consultation with the Advisory Team or its working groups, with the resulting recommendations helping shape policies, services and initiatives, she said. Al Mansouri said the launch reinforces the principle of full and effective participation enshrined in Law No. 22 of 2025 on Persons with Disabilities, making consultation an ongoing process built on listening, partnership and the integration of the lived experiences and expertise of those directly affected.Established in 2010, Mada Center advances digital inclusion and accessibility for persons with disabilities and older persons through programs spanning inclusive education, employment and entrepreneurship, community empowerment, and assistive technology research and innovation. The center also develops Arabic-language assistive technology solutions and supports institutions in creating accessible digital platforms and services in line with international standards, while providing accessibility training, advisory services and awareness programs. 

President of the Arab Organization of Persons with Disabilities (AOPD) Dr. Nawaf Kabbara stressed the importance of strengthening international cooperation and joint action to support the rights of persons with disabilities. He noted that this cooperation represents a qualitative step towards achieving social justice and inclusion in Arab and international societies. In statements to Qatar News Agency (QNA) on the sidelines the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Dr. Kabbara said such initiatives reflect the international community's commitment to working in a spirit of partnership and understanding, and emphasize the need to overcome conflicts and divisions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Dr. Kabbara noted the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Qatar Foundation for Social Work during the Summit, which will enable the implementation of joint programs to support the rights of persons with disabilities in Qatar, the Arab world, and internationally. He explained that this initiative represents a good start for everyone. He added that the outcomes of the Second World Summit for Social Development are a qualitative response to all those who want to eliminate the other or cling only to their position, noting the importance of coexistence and cooperation among people. Regarding cooperation with the State of Qatar, he expressed the organization's pride in hosting the Fourth Global Disability Summit in Doha in 2028, which will contribute to the Arab Organization of Persons with Disabilities leadership and Qatar in advancing the cause of the rights of persons with disabilities. Despite the difficult circumstances humanity is experiencing today, there is always hope, and history is dedicated to positive change, not negative change, Dr. Kabbara concluded in his remarks to QNA.