In Qatar, World Autism Awareness Day is commemorated with the slogan ‘Transformation: Toward a Neuro-Inclusive World for All.’ This slogan highlights the country’s dedication to creating an inclusive environment for those living with Autism. The Country’s sector of Public Health has joined forces with the Ministry of Education to launch a campaign centered around raising awareness about how best to communicate with individuals on the autism spectrum.
Qatar was integral in raising awareness.
Back In 2007, Her Highness Sheikha bint Nasser, with the assistance of all UN member states, had successfully lobbied for the designation of World Autism Awareness Month during the 62nd session of the UN General Assembly.
In other words, Qatar was integral in raising awareness of autism spectrum disorder internationally. It was a critical step forward and encouraged other member states to take the necessary measures to raise awareness about Autism in their communities.
Qatar impressive donation to Touro University in Nevada
In 2020, Qatar made an impressive donation to Touro University Nevada’s Center for Autism to assist in providing services to the community. The $3 million donation from Doha will enable the center to re-employ personnel lost during the pandemic and make up for losses experienced over the past year. As the Las Vegas Sun reported, this donation “will help the institute continue its work” in providing much-needed services for its community.
This is a remarkable gesture from Qatar, indicative of its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment both nationally and internationally. Speaking of Qatar’s Autism Rates, A study by the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute at Hamad Bin Khalifa University revealed that 1 in every 87 children in Qatar is diagnosed with Autism. These rates are lower than that of the U.S., where one out of every 59 children has been diagnosed with Autism. Nonetheless, Qatar is working hard to create a safe and supportive environment for those living with Autism.
Qatar Autism Interventions
In commemoration of World Autism Awareness Day, the Ministry has even put together a virtual training program designed to assist families in their care for individuals with learning disabilities, Autism, behavioral issues, delayed speech, or school problems. Through these initiatives, families are provided with guidance on effectively interacting and forming relationships with those affected by these conditions and teaching them coping and communication skills.
The Ministry has also partnered with the Al Maha Paediatric Specialised Care Centre to create an online training program. This program is designed to provide health practitioners with the necessary skills and knowledge for effectively dealing with individuals living with Autism.
After the training program, those who have accomplished at least 80% of the sessions and actively participated in lectures will receive a certificate of completion. This certificate is evidence of their successful participation in the program and recognition for fulfilling the criteria established by its organizers. The result is that health professionals now better understand Autism and how to interact with those affected by it.
