Qatar Charity has launched a programme that will teach the basics of computing to those who need it most.
The lessons, coinciding with International Day for Persons with Disabilities which falls on December 3, were conducted in partnership with Microsoft Qatar, as part of its Computer Science Week initiative. Children with special needs, as well as orphans, young Qatari females and Qatari mothers will be coached by experts from Microsoft’s Philanthropies and Services teams, on important aspects of information technology.
Last year, Qatar Charity worked with Microsoft and ExxonMobil Qatar to teach the fundamentals of computer-game coding to orphans, using Microsoft’s visual-programing language, Kodu.
This year’s classroom sessions began on December 1, with basic ICT training for children with mild disabilities. The purpose of the course is to introduce the concept of computing to those who may otherwise not get the opportunity to learn from specialists.
During the classes, mentors covered what a computer is, and the varying types of device that qualify as computers. Students will also get a run-down of the major components inside a computer, and the typical peripherals that make machines more usable. There were lessons on how to use a mouse and keyboard, and an overview of the Windows desktop, as well as software applications such as Microsoft Paint, Word and PowerPoint.
Bilal Tamimi from Microsoft’s Service team introduced children to the wonders of the Internet, explaining what it is, how it works, and how to get the most out of it. Web services such as Bing search, Outlook email and calendar, Skype communication, and games like Minecraft were also covered.
“At Qatar Charity we consider ourselves bringers of hope to the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Hamed Shihadeh - Community Partnership Manager.
“In ensuring the basic human dignity of all, regardless of circumstance, access to technology is a critical step. It is a privilege to once again work with Microsoft towards this goal, as we prepare to observe International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Microsoft has done great work around the world in bringing the latest hardware and software to the underprivileged and those with special needs. They are a key partner in our ongoing work here in Qatar.”
Qatar Charity and Microsoft also staged training sessions at Microsoft’s facilities in Qatar Science and Technology Park, specifically for Minecraft gamers, on 8 December for young orphan students, and taking place on 15 December for young Qatari female students.
