Muscat: The Omani Down Syndrome Association has launched its first nationwide awareness caravan, travelling from Al Seeb in Muscat Governorate to Dhofar, with the aim of raising awareness about Down syndrome, promoting inclusion, and strengthening community partnerships across Oman.The caravan, which runs from July 31 to August 7, departed from the association’s headquarters in Al Seeb and will travel through Nizwa before reaching its final destination in Salalah, after which it will return to Muscat. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Jabri, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Omani Down Syndrome Association, said the initiative reflects the association’s commitment to expanding public awareness about the rights and abilities of people with Down syndrome in all governorates of the Sultanate.“The caravan aims to strengthen community partnerships and spread awareness about issues affecting people with Down syndrome while highlighting the talents and capabilities of our children and promoting a culture of inclusion and social acceptance,” he said.Al Jabri explained that the initiative also seeks to correct common misconceptions about Down syndrome, introduce the association’s mission, services, and programmes for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, and encourage greater community involvement.The awareness campaign is also designed to attract volunteers, supporters, and sponsors to help implement the association’s future programmes and initiatives, while reinforcing social responsibility and encouraging the full integration of people with Down syndrome into all aspects of society.The caravan consists of 12 buses equipped with comprehensive safety measures and is carrying 200 participants from different wilayats across Oman, accompanied by 24 volunteer supervisors.Upon arriving in Dhofar Governorate, participants will take part in a programme of educational and recreational activities, including visits to heritage, historical, and cultural landmarks, providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and community engagement.