Inadequate schools for autistic children

Autism is misunderstood in our society. We do not like to talk openly about it and those affected by this syndrome remain neglected as our society is yet to be fully aware of this problem. Even in Dhaka, we find a few special schools for the autistic children and it is a big problem for parents. A few private schools, who deal with autism, are very expensive and out of reach for the middle class people.
Nowadays, we see that autism is not limited to a single region or a country; it is a worldwide challenge that requires global action and we need a combined effort to handle it. It is a very delicate matter and if we neglect it, a large number of children will not be able to live a normal life and remain outcasts from society. The world observes the World Autism Day on April 2 every year to create awareness among common people.
Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life. If proper guidance and schooling is provided, many of the children with autistic syndrome can lead a normal life as a member of society instead of being burden on their families or state. We hope the government will help to establish schools with affordable tuition fee for autistic children so that they can have quality care which they richly deserve.
Roksana Sultana
Uttara, Dhaka