Saudi Gazette report
RIYADH — Alwaleed Philanthropies, chaired by Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, has launched the “Esma’ani” project in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Development. The project will see the establishment of a first of its kind center in the Kingdom, dedicated to providing round-the-clock services for people with hearing and speech impairments.
In an effort to give the hearing and speech impaired individuals equal access to free services offered by the government and private sector, the center will provide invaluable services to these people, such as remote video sign language interpreting as a simple and practical solution, and 24-hour dedicated interpreters. Complementing the center is a live chat option will become available on the Ministry of Labor and Social Development’s website and a mobile application will also be developed to enable easier interaction.
“Esma’ani” falls under Alwaleed Philanthropies’ work in community development and youth empowerment. Commenting on the new center, Ms. Amal Al Kathiri, executive manager of the local Initiatives said “We are proud to be pioneering the establishment of the Kingdom’s first center to help individuals with hearing impairments gain equal opportunity like the rest of society. Inclusivity is vital for any society to prosper and we are confident that the new center will create a better future for the many people with hearing and speech impairments.”
