Ministry of Health Hosts Roundtable Discussion to Strengthen Autism Awareness
Photo credit: Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Health organised a special roundtable discussion today with stakeholders, aiming to strengthen autism awareness and highlight priority areas for improving services and support systems for individuals with autism and their families.
Held on April 2, which marks World Autism Awareness Day, the discussion focused on policy support needs and strategies for creating an immediate impact in the field. The Ministry of Health’s key objective for the celebration was to raise public awareness, emphasising the importance of early treatment initiation and the need for strengthened services for individuals with autism. This year’s theme, “Neurodiversity and the Promotion of the Sustainable Development Goals,” was aligned with the United Nations’ focus on promoting equal opportunities for individuals with autism by facilitating skill development and ensuring accessible services.
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While awareness and treatment for autism have improved in the country, challenges persist in terms of accessing special education and health services. Individuals with autism often face difficulties in socialising and encounter negative societal attitudes, hindering their full participation. In response, the Ministry of Health is committed to creating systems for early identification of autism and providing timely intervention, with plans to make these services more readily available in regional hospitals.
The Ministry collaborates with relevant government ministries, private organisations, health professionals, and international partners such as UNICEF and WHO to enhance autism support policies and programmes. Activities marking World Autism Awareness Day include a media campaign, a panel discussion among professionals, and a roundtable with parents and those working in the field. Additionally, special training programmes for healthcare providers will be developed to ensure improved service delivery.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health urged parents, educators, health workers, and the public to participate in these activities, contributing to creating a compassionate environment where individuals with autism can thrive in all areas of society. The Ministry also called for an end to negative attitudes towards individuals with autism, stressing the importance of a united effort to eliminate such biases.
The Ministry expressed gratitude to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for his support of government policies on autism and acknowledged the contributions of professionals and others who are dedicated to improving the lives of those with autism.
