His Excellency the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau today reminded students of the Suva Special School that Government’s commitment to addressing autism will ensure that students would never “walk alone” again.
Speaking at the World Autism Awareness Day celebrations held at the school, His Excellency told students with special needs, parents and teachers that there is a need to raise awareness on autism at all levels of society, which is a lifelong developmental condition usually affecting children.
Autism is characterised by lack of response to people as well as limited ability to communicate.
“Today it is our role to educate the public and community so they may have a better understanding of Autism. We are here not only to celebrate the fact that we are aware of autism but also to acknowledge that due to much painstaking research, we now also possess a better knowledge of autism,” Ratu Epeli said.
Studies have shown and proven that there are more children diagnosed with autism than with diabetes, cancer and AIDS combined.
“As part of efforts to provide a holistic and systematic approach to assisting all people with special needs, Government is now finalising the Disability Decree which should be introduced soon,” Ratu Epeli highlighted.
He also encouraged all Fijians to work in togetherness in order to improve the lives of people with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum.
“The development and delivery for more effective studies and treatment need to be addressed and adjustments need to be made to ensure that people and persons with autism are accepted, respected and supported like any other Fiji citizen.
“A collaborative and concerted approach will ensure that we fulfill the requirements of Fiji’s new Constitution which calls for an inclusive society where no one is left out irrespective of race, social background or physical and mental ability,” Ratu Epeli said.
While this is the seventh year of celebrations for World Autism Awareness Day, Namadi Heights based Suva Special School observed it for the third time today.
School head teacher, Bishwa Sidal said those parents of children with special needs must seek assistance with special schools.
“Parents need to be educated on what disability a child has and how their brain works. Only then they will understand the children better,” Mr Sidal said.
“Members of the community also need to accept and support children with special needs, including those with autism. Spreading awareness of autism in a child is very important. We need more specialised teachers and support staff in this field in order to make proper assessments and programs.”
More than 150 students and teachers of special schools around Suva with Fiji National Council for Disabled Persons converged at Suva Special School to mark World Autism Awareness Day.
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