Speaking on the World Autism Awareness Day in his radio address today, President Mohamed Nasheed has called on the media to help raise awareness on autism, a serious developmental disability.
The fourth annual World Autism Awareness Day is observed on Saturday, 2 April to shine a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis.
Recalling his meetings several families caring for individuals with autism, the President encouraged members of the public to form close ties to garner support and raise awareness about autism throughout society.
President Nasheed underscored caring for individuals with autism as a symbol of the compassion for humanity.
The President commended the work of civil society organisations such as the Maldives Autism Association, Association for Disabilities and Development and Care Society to disseminate information and impart aid for the well being of individuals with developmental challenges.
Autism is a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired interaction and communication which affects an individual’s way of life in the society.