On the occasion of International Autism Day.. Minister of Social Development: Bahrain provides a role model in health and social care for the lives of people with disabilities in general and autism in

01-04-2023

The Kingdom of Bahrain joins the international community in celebrating the International Day of Awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder corresponding to the second of April of each year, which was approved by the United Nations since 2008, and this year adopted the slogan (transformation towards a comprehensive world of biodiversity for all), to highlight the concept of autism, and enable them to overcome challenges, in addition to raising awareness of the rights of this group and the importance of caring for them. On this occasion, His Excellency the Minister of Social Development, Mr. Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al-Asfoor, affirmed that people with disabilities represent an important segment of the societal fabric, and that the government is keen to provide them with the best forms of quality health, education and educational services, and to create all conditions that enable them to engage in society effectively, while giving them full opportunity to develop their talents to prove their capabilities and involve them as people who are able to give and contribute positively, whether in their own environment or at the community level. He pointed out that the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to the values of justice and equality, and promoting the full participation of all people with autism spectrum disorder, reflects Bahrain's vision in caring for and rehabilitating this group and containing them with all necessary forms of care to be useful individuals for themselves and their society, pointing out in this context that Bahrain is working with all its agencies, institutions and bodies, including the Ministry of Social Development, to provide a role model in health and social care, especially in the field of caring for the life, safety and integration of people with disabilities in general, and people with autism spectrum disorder in particular, by strengthening the principles of community partnership It works with all partners, in a way that contributes to activating sustainable initiatives and projects, to ensure the provision of quality and efficient development services. Within the framework of the government's interest in providing the best support factors for autism spectrum disorder, Al-Asfoor explained that the ministry is working to support civil rehabilitation centers working in the field of disability and concerned with providing special services for cases of autism spectrum disorder, indicating in this context that the number of beneficiaries of the ministry's support for these centers is about 300 students with autism, noting that the total number of students with autism spectrum disorder registered with the ministry is 1286 students who benefit from the monthly disability allowance. The Ministry of Social Development affirms that raising awareness of the rate of autism spectrum disorder is everyone's responsibility, and requires more governmental, community and family efforts to diagnose and early detection of cases, in addition to adopting integrated programs and plans for treatment, rehabilitation and integration into society.