The Authority of People with Disability (APD) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission. As part of the "Books for All" initiative, the collaboration intends to provide individuals with disabilities with access to literary and cultural content through digital platforms. It also aims to enable individuals with visual disabilities to access content in accordance with digital accessibility regulations as well as in compliance with the Marrakesh Treaty, which allows individuals with visual disabilities to access and benefit from content. The APD and the commission will also work on reviewing the participation of individuals with visual disabilities and experts in the platform on a regular basis, as well as to gain from worldwide experiences that will help the project succeed.
The MoU was signed at the APD headquarters by Dr. Hisham bin Muhammad Al-Haidari, CEO of the Authority of People with Disability, and Dr. Mohammed bin Hassan Alwan, the CEO of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission. Dr. Hisham Al-Haidari highlighted the significance of providing individuals with disabilities access to all written and audio content in accordance with local and international laws. It is worth noting that the APD's efforts are simply an extension of the ongoing support individuals with disabilities enjoy from the wise leadership, as well as the opportunities provided by other sectors that contribute to the path of empowerment and inclusion. He stated that the APD, in collaboration with several governmental and private sectors, serves as a comprehensive umbrella for all matters pertaining to individuals with disabilities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He added that the APD aims to remove all barriers facing individuals with disabilities, enhance the services provided to them, and integrate them into a comprehensive and harmonious society.
It is important to mention that the Authority of People with Disability has executed numerous agreements and memoranda of cooperation with a variety of government sectors. These agreements are intended to guarantee the empowerment of individuals with disabilities, the enhancement of physical and non-physical accessibility requirements, and the benefit from studies, research, programs, and plans that are designed to empower individuals with disabilities.
