Bahrain Celebrates World Autism Awareness Day: A Commitment to Inclusion and Equality

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

"The Kingdom of Bahrain annually observes World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the rights of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and providing an inclusive environment that enables them to exercise their rights fairly and equally, according to international best practices and standards."

In a statement to Bahrain News Agency (BNA), Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Bahrain Association for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties, emphasized that Bahrain stands out with its pioneering experience in adopting comprehensive social policies involving the government, civil society, and the private sector. These efforts contribute to achieving principles of justice, equality, and equal opportunities for all citizens, particularly those with disabilities, by building capacities and empowering individuals, their families, and the institutions serving them. This approach embodies the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, and is in line with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to promote comprehensive development and ensure the rights of all segments of society, including those with autism, through policies and programs that guarantee their active participation in various fields.

Dr. Shaikha Rania noted that the celebration of this day reflects the Kingdom's dedication to implementing plans and programs aimed at raising awareness about autism spectrum disorder, with the number of individuals registered in this category reaching 1,662, according to the Ministry of Health's statistics for March 2024.

She added that Bahrain follows an inclusive approach in supporting and empowering individuals with autism, which includes the implementation of educational integration programs in both public and private schools, as well as training and rehabilitation programs that enhance their employment opportunities across various sectors. Additionally, Bahrain is working on specialized programs such as the Early Autism Screening Program, implemented by the Ministry of Health, to improve early intervention opportunities and enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism.

In line with international standards, Dr. Shaikha Rania pointed out that Bahrain has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and works closely with global organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization to implement specialized awareness and training programs. Bahrain also collaborates with leading institutions in the fields of diagnosis and rehabilitation.

In this regard, Dr. Shaikha Rania emphasized that the Bahrain Association for Children with Behavioral and Communication Difficulties continues its steadfast commitment to empowering individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, advocating for their rights, and striving for their full integration into society through sustainable developmental programs and plans. Since its inception, the association has been keen on providing integrated services ranging from education, rehabilitation, therapy, and family support through its institutions, such as the Alia Center for Early Intervention and the Alia Rehabilitation Center, in addition to training programs and accredited professional certifications.

She also highlighted the association’s efforts to develop the Nasmah Community Project, a visionary initiative that aims to create an inclusive, self-sustaining community for individuals with special needs, particularly those with autism, in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The project will offer a safe, supportive, and stimulating environment focusing on capacity building and valuing individual differences. The project will include purpose-built housing, vocational workshops, cooking labs, educational and training spaces, a mosque, an organic garden, a café, and a shop run by individuals with autism, embodying a practical model for integration and empowerment.

Dr. Shaikha Rania further emphasized that the project will rely on a sustainable financial model that includes tuition fees, donations, partnerships, and agricultural and craft production to ensure its long-term sustainability and independence.

The association continues to expand its partnerships with companies and the private sector to provide real opportunities for training and employment. A prime example is the Hala by Alia project, the first café and bakery in Bahrain fully managed by young individuals with autism, offering a unique community experience that supports empowerment and economic independence.

Concluding her statement, Dr. Shaikha Rania reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to continuing its efforts to empower individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder through the activation of quality initiatives and projects that help overcome the challenges they face. She stressed that the association will continue to enhance coordination between various government, private, and civil society sectors to raise awareness and provide real opportunities for individuals with autism to achieve independence and empowerment.