The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has officially concluded its nationwide initiative “Everyone Connected, Everyone Engaged,” launched earlier this year to commemorate the 160th anniversary of ITU. The closing ceremony was held in collaboration with Best Buddies Qatar and featured an inclusive visit to the Space Radio Monitoring Centre (SRMC).
During the visit, participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities engaged directly with CRA’s advanced monitoring technologies. They explored specialised monitoring vehicles, attended real-time demonstrations of spectrum activities, and observed CRA’s “Al-Shaheen” drone — a tool used to detect and resolve interference affecting radio signals. The experience provided hands-on exposure to how CRA protects the integrity of mobile, internet and broadcast services across the country.
The initiative, launched on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, included a wide range of community-focused activities. These ranged from digital-safety workshops for seniors held with the support of Ehsan Centre to ICT innovation programmes for youth and multiple inclusion-focused engagements empowering people with disabilities. The goal was to strengthen digital literacy and ensure all members of society can benefit equally from Qatar’s digital transformation.
Amel Salem Al-Hanawi, Director of the Consumer Affairs Department at CRA, said the initiative underscores the authority’s commitment to building an inclusive digital society and advancing the national ICT strategy aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Sheikha Haya Al-Thani, Inclusion Lead at Best Buddies Qatar, praised the collaboration, noting that the SRMC experience enhanced participants’ confidence, sense of belonging and understanding of Qatar’s technological advancements.
Best Buddies Qatar, a non-profit organisation under Qatar Social Work, supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting friendship, employment opportunities and leadership development. Its partnership with CRA ensured the initiative combined technological exploration with meaningful community empowerment.
