As part of its efforts to increase the use of Assistive Technology in Qatar, Mada (Qatar Assistive Technology Center) has launched the Mada Reader-Writer, an important and easy-to-use tool that supports the learning needs of people with different disabilities. The product was developed by Mada in conjunction with Sensory Software, a Britain-based assistive technology manufacturer.
The Mada Reader-Writer was developed as part of a comprehensive programme to provide much needed tools in the Arabic language. The Arabic product is comprised of “reader,” a simple text to speech utility and “writer,” which predicts words as you type. Together, they form a significant contribution to assisting those who struggle with reading and writing throughout the Arabic-speaking world. The programme will be readily made available, free of charge, to all those who need it in Qatar.
“As we continue to work towards creating an accessible digital landscape for people with disabilities in Qatar, developing Arabic language solutions remains a priority for Mada. Not only does it allow us to meet the needs of disabled people, but it enables to have an impact on Arabic speakers worldwide,” said David Banes, CEO of Mada.
The launch took place at the Mada Resource Centre, and was attended by people representing different sectors of the community in Qatar, including independent schools, disabled people’s organisations, and research institutions. Also, a team from Sensory Software, the British developers of the programme, was present to celebrate the global launch of the product.
“Mada is currently leading efforts in the Middle East to promote greater use of assistive technology, so it was a natural fit to work with them to develop the Mada Reader-Writer.
Hopefully, this important learning tool will be the first of future developments that can serve the needs of people with disabilities in their native Arabic tongue,” added Paul Hawes, Managing Director, Sensory Software.
The launch comes as part of a series of events that Mada is organising around the theme of communication tools.