PM wants autistic children to flourish thru joint efforts

Prime Minister (PM) Sheikh Hasina on Saturday put emphasis on brining children with special needs and autism into the mainstream of the society giving them opportunity to flourish their hidden talents, reports UNB.

"I believe we will be able to incorporate persons with autism syndrome in the mainstream of the national life with joint efforts of all including our (government's) diversified ones," she said.

She said this while addressing the 15th World Autism Awareness Day 2022 at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) organised by the social welfare ministry.

She joined the programme virtually from her official residence Ganobhaban.

The prime minister said children with autism syndrome have various types of hidden talents. "The talents have to be flourished through giving them opportunities."

She also urged all to take steps to help special children so that they could flourish their hidden talents and contribute to the society.

Regarding the demand of providing accommodation with training facilities for the persons with autism after demise of their parents and guardians, Sheikh Hasina said the government will do that.

"Initially, we will arrange accommodation with training facilities in the divisional headquarters while gradually in all districts through Neuro-Developmental Disability Protection Trust."

She asked the social welfare minister to take a project for this purpose and urged the affluent people to come forward for supplementing the government's efforts.

"You have earned a lot, if you spend some of your money for this purpose, it will be beneficial for the country," she said, adding that the government is taking the country forward and it means all sections of the society will get its benefits.

The prime minister again urged all to remain safe from coronavirus as many places around the world are witnessing surge in infections.

Social Welfare Minister Nuruzzaman Ahmed, State Minister Md. Ashraf Ali Khan Khasru and Secretary Mahfuza Akhter spoke at the programme.

Special child Isaba Hafiz Sushmi, on behalf of all special children with Autism syndrome, also spoke at the function.

Later, the PM witnessed a colourful cultural function performed by physically challenged children.

Social Welfare Minister Nuruzzaman, on behalf of the prime minister, distributed awards among successful children with autism and individuals and organisations working for the development of such children.

A documentary on autism was screened at the programme.

Hasina also inaugurated Bolte Chai Apps and Smart Autism Barta Apps.