Projected TV channel to cater to people with disabilities

AMMAN – A local society plans to launch a satellite channel geared towards people with disabilities, broadcasting programmes that address their needs and concerns.

Ahl Al Tayseer Charitable Society has submitted a request to the Ministry of Social Development to launch the TV channel, according to Mohammad Awaimer, the society's president. 

"The channel will be the first of its kind in the Middle East," Awaimer told The Jordan Times over the phone on Monday. 

Called "Awn", the channel will broadcast programmes for people with disabilities not only in Jordan, but also across the Arab world, he said. 

"For example, we will have descriptive news reports for people with visual disabilities and have programmes translated into sign language for the deaf community." 

Awaimer said no date has been set for the channel's launch as the society is still collecting donations to finance the venture.

"This is a huge project and needs a lot of funds," he added. 

The channel will not only benefit people with disabilities, but also their family members and relatives. 

"Some families do not know how to treat or deal with their children with disabilities; this channel will feature programmes that can teach and help them," Awaimer said, noting that job opportunities will be available at the channel for people with disabilities.