Mada Assistive Technology Centre has launched the Mada Coding Camp 2026, an initiative aimed at enhancing digital inclusion for children and youth with disabilities. The summer program, organized by Mada Academy, seeks to develop participants’ skills in programming and artificial intelligence (AI) through accessible teaching methods and inclusive learning environments.
The camp targets young people aged 10 to 18 with various disabilities and is divided into three specialized educational tracks designed to meet the specific needs of different groups.
The first track is a general coding camp for children and youth with disabilities. It covers fundamentals of programming, robotics, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities, AI, and innovation. The curriculum uses practical activities to foster creative thinking and teamwork skills. Sessions for boys began recently, while those for girls are scheduled to start on August 3 at the Mada Lab, located within Mada Centre.
The second track focuses on children and youth with visual impairments. Participants benefit from assistive technology tools such as Code Jumper and LEGO Braille Bricks, which facilitate learning programming concepts through tactile, auditory, and hands-on approaches. This track is set to take place from August 10 to 12.
The third track supports deaf and hard-of-hearing children and youth by providing accessible visual teaching methods, including sign-language-supported instruction, visual demonstrations, robotics projects, and interactive activities. The boys’ sessions will run from August 17 to 19, followed by girls’ sessions from August 24 to 26.
Noora al-Marri, head of the Innovation Section at Mada, emphasized the program’s role in investing in the abilities of young people with disabilities by equipping them with essential digital skills. She highlighted the importance of these skills for future education and employment opportunities and reaffirmed Mada Centre’s commitment to making the camp educational, enabling, and accessible.
The Mada Coding Camp 2026 reflects broader efforts to promote digital inclusion and empower individuals with disabilities by opening new pathways into technology-focused fields.