‘Support persons, families with autism’

This year’s World Autism Day celebrations has been launched in Accra with a call for more support for persons and families of those with autism.

According to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Mulan Neurodiversity School (MNS), Mrs Brigitte Mills Simmonds, differences are not weaknesses, but are just part of what makes every one special as such must be supported, understood and celebrated.

The launch which was on the theme; “Embracing Differences, Empowering Every Ability,” sought to create more awareness on the condition towards seeking support for the affected persons and their families.

Autism awareness, she explained was not only about knowing that the condition exists but creating a society that accepts, supports and empowers neurodiverse individuals and the families.

“It’s about opening doors, changing mind sets and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive”, she added.

Mrs Simmonds suggested meaningful activities like the autism awareness walk, free neuro clinics and assessment and financial support for Neuro Parents in order to make their impact felt in the society.

The mission at MNS, the CEO said, goes beyond education, but here to provide support, hope and practical solutions for children navigating neurodiversity, adding, “We want every parent to know that they are seen, heard and not alone, let us embrace differences, empower every ability and build a more inclusive future together.

Mr Alex Amankwah of the Ghana Education Service said an inclusive action was needed to get all stakeholders on board to ensure that children with autism were not segregated.

He indicated that children with special needs have their unique talents which must be exploited for the benefit of society, hence the onus lies with the care givers to unearth those talents.

Mr Amankwah stated that about 50,000 teachers have been trained with specific skills to handle children with special needs for an inclusive action and urged parents to get involved in supporting their wards holistically instead of segregation them.

The Director of the School, Ms Diana Obeng, called for recognition of unique strengths and talents of individuals with autism.

By Lawrence Vomafa-Akpalu