Dubai, UAE: Under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, Dubai is embarking on a month-long campaign to raise awareness about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Dubai Autism Center, aims to educate the community about ASD while fostering stronger bonds between parents and their children on the autism spectrum.
Themed ‘Trusting Parents, Empowered Kids’, the 18th annual autism awareness campaign, underscores the significance of family support and nurturing relationships between parents and their children with autism.
This year’s campaign aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, championed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, focusing on the pivotal role of families in building a cohesive society.
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity and support for individuals with autism, Hisham Abdullah Al Qassim, Chairman of Dubai Autism Center, emphasized the UAE’s commitment to empowering people of determination.
He lauded the nation’s strides in fostering inclusivity and recognizing the vital contributions of individuals with autism to sustainable development objectives.
Mohammed Al Emadi, Director-General of the Dubai Autism Center, outlined the campaign’s multifaceted approach, which includes a series of events and activities aimed at promoting awareness and creating autism-friendly environments.
From Ramadan awareness nights to workshops for mainstream teachers and educational sessions for public and private sector organizations, the campaign seeks to build a more inclusive and welcoming community for everyone.
In a bid for early intervention, the campaign will offer free early autism screenings and comprehensive assessments for individuals with autism and developmental disorders.
These efforts underscore the importance of early detection and intervention in improving outcomes for individuals with ASD.
Utilizing various media platforms including mass media, cinemas, and digital screens across the UAE, the campaign aims to reach a wide audience, spreading awareness and fostering understanding about autism spectrum disorder.
Moreover, the campaign underscores the importance of community engagement and collaboration in creating a supportive environment for individuals with autism.
As part of the campaign, a Ramadan evening event on April 4, organized in collaboration with the Community Development Authority in Dubai, will feature panel discussions addressing the importance of family support and strategies for enhancing the relationship between parents and children with autism.
The event, to be held at the Al Khawaneej Majlis, will provide a platform for families, government officials, and representatives of POD centres to exchange ideas and experiences.
Additionally, the Dubai Autism Center will conduct awareness and training workshops for private school employees, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to support students with autism effectively.
By adhering to relevant legislation and procedures, these workshops aim to create a more inclusive educational environment for students with ASD.
Established in 2001 by a decree of the Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Autism Center is an Emirati non-profit organization dedicated to providing integrated consulting, educational, and therapeutic services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including classrooms, therapy clinics, and sensory rooms, the center is committed to offering a conducive educational environment for children with autism.
In conclusion, Dubai’s month-long autism awareness campaign reflects the nation’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
By fostering understanding, promoting awareness, and strengthening familial bonds, the campaign aims to create a more inclusive and supportive community for individuals with autism and their families.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members