MUSCAT : The innovation, known as ‘Sensory Colours’, transforms colours from a purely visual concept into a multi-sensory experience, allowing users to associate each colour with specific textures, scents and environmental cues. The initiative is designed to promote creativity, artistic expression and greater independence among people with visual impairments.

Speaking to the Oman News Agency, Al Maliki said the idea stemmed from her belief that creativity should be accessible to everyone regardless of physical ability.

“I was inspired to create the innovation from a real need that exists in society, and from my desire to make an impact that touches a precious group that deserves to learn and create in ways that suit their sensory world. So, I decided to employ the other senses as an alternative educational method, so that colour transforms from a visual concept into an experience that can be touched, smelled, and felt,” she stated.

The innovation aims to make learning more inclusive by helping users build mental and emotional associations with colours using senses other than sight. According to Al Maliki, linking colours with textures, scents and sounds enables learners to better understand, remember and imagine colours while encouraging artistic creativity and self-expression.

She said the materials used in the project were carefully selected to be safe, environmentally friendly and suitable for children and people with visual impairments. Different textures and non-toxic colour materials are used to create distinctive sensory experiences while supporting sustainable educational practices.

Al Maliki believes the innovation has applications beyond colour education. It can be used in schools, rehabilitation centres, art therapy programmes and sensory training activities to develop communication skills, stimulate creativity and create a more engaging learning environment for visually impaired students.

She noted that international research has increasingly highlighted the role of multi-sensory learning in helping people with visual impairments better understand colours and visual arts.

Looking ahead, Al Maliki said the project could be integrated with artificial intelligence and smart applications to provide more personalised learning experiences. She also envisages expanding the concept to include tactile art, sensory storytelling, interactive exhibitions, theatre and music by linking colours with sounds, textures and emotions.

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