Officials at the launch of the forum yesterday, June 31, 2025.
Doha: The Cultural Village Foundation Katara launched yesterday the 24th edition of the Katara Tech Forum under the theme "Autism Spectrum Disorder: Innovation, Inclusion, and Quality of Life".
The event was held in the presence of Assistant Undersecretary for Family Affairs at the Ministry of Social Development and Family, HE Sheikha Sheikha bint Jassim Al-Thani along with a lineup of officials, experts, and pioneers in the field.
Director of Information Systems Department at Katara and Chairman of the Forum, Thamer Al Qadi emphasised that Katara Tech, organised in collaboration with the International Business Council, serves as a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge and expertise on autism spectrum disorder.
He noted that the forum’s three main pillars reflect its commitment to seeking practical and innovative solutions to enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families.
“Our aim through this edition is to present high-quality content that explores the latest technologies and methods that support the inclusion of individuals with autism in society and enhance their overall quality of life,” he said.
President of the International Business Council and General Coordinator of the Forum, Dr. Mohsen Ali Al Ajmi highlighted the importance of raising awareness about autism, stressing that individuals on the spectrum possess unique abilities that must be identified and nurtured.
Honorary President of the Arab Union for Private Schools, Dr. Khamis Al Ajmi praised Katara’s efforts in supporting autism-related issues, stating that children with autism carry within them creative emotions and thoughts that need to be heard and understood.
Among the highlights of the event was the launch of the “I Need” app, specifically developed to support the needs of children with autism. Discussions also focused on the role of educational farms in improving their quality of life.
The forum will continue today, July 1, 2025.
