Mada AT Portal

Mada AT Portal

Research article Online Open access | Available online on: 08 September, 2019 | Last update: 10 November, 2019

Nafath

Volume 6

Issue 07

Mada Assistive Technology Center aims at integrating persons with disabilities into society
by enabling them to access ICTs using Assistive Technology (AT) and Accessibility services. AT plays a major role in improving the lives of persons with disabilities and supporting their needs following international best practices by promoting innovation and providing the necessary resources for professionals and others in this field.

The Qatar National Vision 2030 addresses the integration of all components of the society and the provision of equal opportunities for all. The “Mada AT Portal” is the first of its kind platform aiming to support people with disabilities in Qatar and the Arab region.

In this purpose, “Mada AT Portal” serves as a leading AT and Accessibility information resource connecting professionals, parents, AT users, and developers to e-Accessibility and assistive technology solutions. The portal provides the necessary information and data about various devices and programs that people with disabilities can use. All assistive technology products were classified according to disabilities: visual, hearing, physical, communication and learning disabilities. Besides, the portal provides detailed information on the AT solutions suppliers, beneficiaries, latest updates, and approximate prices. Through the portal, we can access additional resources related to assistive technology, including factsheets, case
studies, educational videos, and a collection of blog articles. Moreover, a unique glossary of assistive technology terminology in Arabic and English is provided to better understand terms related to accessibility and disability in general.

The portal also offers a set of tools (user interfaces web components) and user experience guidelines on the ease of use of websites for people with disabilities. The set of tools is dedicated to developers and webmasters. For example, a specialist can download software and tools free of charge, such as font magnifier and screen readers,
which can help him to develop and find out the level of accessibility of his website. Since the launch of the Mada AT Portal, its the role has been to promote the development of Arabic digital content, introduce assistive technology, and encourage Qatari and Arab innovators to develop unique innovations that have greatly contributed to the empowerment of people with disabilities in all domains at the national and regional levels.

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