Recently, icddr,b’s Technical Training Unit in partnership with the Foundation for Advancement of Innovations in Technology and Health, Bangladesh (faith Bangladesh)  organised a workshop for parents and caregivers of children with ASD. “Autism Spectrum Disorders: Improving Children’s Ability to Talk and Mix with Peers” is a continuation of therapeutic practice programmes, held at icddr,b, to empower parents and caregivers raising children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

This workshop is designed to strengthen each child’s communication skills allowing them to reach their full potential.

In the inauguration session of the workshop, H.E. Marcia Stephens Bloom Bernicat in a written message commended the programme and highlighted two important factors that are key for creating a positive environment for children with ASD. She said, “First, it is so important to fight the stigma associated with all Neurodevelopmental Disorders, or NDDs.

Mr Syed Monjurul Islam, Deputy Executive Director, icddr,b said, “icddr,b has always led health innovation in Bangladesh, and we are pleased to be part of the team providing highly impactful guidance to families with a child who has a ASD.’

Special guest on the occasion Major General (Rtd.) Md. Shafiq-ul-Islam, Executive Director, Center for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP) stressed on the importance of therapeutic interventions and shared CRP’s experience in addressing Neurodevelopmental Disorders.   

Dr Aftab Uddin, Head of the Technical Training Unit at icddr,b welcomed the audience saying, “Tackling Autism Spectrum Disorder requires many actors, from parents through providers to policymakers, however, the brunt is borne by the parents of these special children as they spend 24/7 days with them. Therefore, empowering parents/caregivers is essential, as is educating everyone in our society."