MUSCAT : The figures were highlighted by the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Labour as Oman prepares to launch the first edition of the ‘Purple Saturday’ initiative on July 25, under the theme ‘A Day with a Lasting Impact’.

The employment data showed that the 542 beneficiaries included persons with disabilities who were appointed to the private sector for the first time, as well as those who had previous work experience and returned to employment.

In addition, 140 persons with hearing disabilities benefited from introductory workshops on the provisions of the Labour Law, aimed at increasing awareness of workplace rights and responsibilities.

The Ministry of Social Development said the Purple Saturday initiative seeks to strengthen community inclusion, promote social responsibility and encourage public and private sector institutions to create more accessible and supportive environments for persons with disabilities.

The initiative, organised annually on the last Saturday of July, is part of GCC-wide efforts to raise awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities and enhance their integration into society by encouraging commercial, service and tourism institutions to provide services and initiatives tailored to their needs.

Launched for the first time in 2021, Purple Saturday reflects a unified GCC approach to supporting and empowering persons with disabilities, improving their quality of life and promoting equal opportunities across different areas of society.

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