Dubai Women's College hosts an orientation session for the special olympics

Approximately 1000 participants from 20 Middle East/North African countries are to compete in 10 sports across different venues in Dubai. The event is hosted by the Special Olympics UAE and will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Mr. Majed Al Qasimis, National Director for UAE Special Olympics, addressed more than 200 DWC students and staff members on the significance of volunteering for this event emphasizing the need to change people's misperception of the special needs' group in the society. He discussed the fact that up until today, many special needs individuals are refusing to leave their homes because of the way people in our society judge them. Al Qasimi provided his audience with several examples from his personal experience with the special needs group and asked them to become involved in creating a more educated community that not only respects, but also encourages this group to be active members of the society. 'Volunteering with the special needs group is the most beautiful and rewarding work anybody can ever do,' he said.

After the orientation session, more than 63 DWC students registered to volunteer in different work categories including administrative, technical, and public relations work. This is the first time the MENA Special Olympics Regional Games is to take place in a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country.