Muscat: Driven by her conviction that innovation begins with an idea that addresses a human need, Omani inventor Azza Mohammed Al Malki has developed an educational tool called "Sensory Colours" to help blind and visually impaired individuals recognize and understand colours through touch, smell, and sound - expanding inclusive learning through innovative solutions.
According to Oman News Agency, Al Malki shared that the initial inspiration stemmed from her belief in creativity as a universal right, asserting that losing sight does not equate to losing the ability to imagine or feel colours. This idea evolved from a human question into a tangible project, born out of a genuine community need and a desire to create an impact that enables the blind to learn and create in sensory-appropriate ways.
The innovation has garnered several accolades, including the Economic Vision Award in Social Responsibility and Sustainability from Al Roya Newspaper in 2025, and the Creativity and Excellence Award from Al Mar'a Magazine. These recognitions have fueled further development and transformation into a sustainable initiative.
Al Malki explained that the innovation links colours with textures, scents, sounds, and environmental associations, enabling blind individuals to form mental and emotional images of each hue. By engaging with colours through touch or smell, individuals build associations that enhance understanding and interaction in a manner more aligned with their everyday experiences.
She emphasized the careful selection of materials: safe, eco-friendly, and sensory, with different textures to distinguish between colours. Non-toxic dyes suitable for children were chosen, focusing on enhancing each colour's sensory experience clearly and comfortably.
The inventor highlighted that the innovation allows blind individuals to form mental and emotional images of colours using other senses, fostering imagination, creativity, and expression. The integration of senses significantly enhances memory, as the mind interacts more robustly with information linked to emotions and sensory experiences.
Sensory colours can be used in schools and rehabilitation centres, not only for teaching colours but also for developing sensory skills, enhancing communication, and stimulating artistic creativity. Global studies indicate that using touch, sound, and scents helps visually impaired individuals engage with colours more profoundly.
Al Malki noted that the innovation can also be applied in art therapy, drawing activities, and classroom exercises to aid self-expression and confidence-building. Teachers and rehabilitation specialists can utilize it to develop more inclusive educational methods that cater to diverse learning needs.
She acknowledged challenges such as ensuring safe, high-quality materials combining sensory and educational aspects, adapting the product for various age groups and impairment levels, raising awareness about sensory education, and forging partnerships with educational and rehabilitation institutions.
Modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and smart applications, could further enhance the innovation, offering a more advanced educational experience. Global research is progressing towards multisensory systems to aid visually impaired individuals in comprehending colours and arts comprehensively.
The innovation's potential extends to raised drawing, sensory stories, interactive exhibitions, and educational tools based on different senses. Applications in music, theatre, and interactive arts could link colours to emotions, sounds, and textures for an integrated artistic experience. Specialized training programs and workshops could empower blind individuals to discover their talents and participate in creative fields.
In conclusion, this innovation provides blind individuals with an opportunity to interact with daily details linked to colours, arts, emotions, and the environment. By transforming colour into a tangible experience, a blind person gains a deeper understanding of the world around them, enhancing their sense of inclusion, independence, self-confidence, and opening pathways to artistic expression and creative participation.