WOLD AUTISM DAY

National Universities Commission/Autism Care And Support Initiative Seminar

THE NEED FOR PROFESSIONAL AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING IN THE FIELD OF SPECIAL EDUCATION IN NIGERIA A FOCUS ON AUTISM

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Autism are both general terms for a group of complex developmental brain disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviours. Studies have shown that autism is four to five times more common in boys than. girls. ASD affects over two million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide. 

2. It is important therefore to bring awareness to various stakeholders in our society about the challenges that children with Autism face as well as the very glaring need for capacity building among various professionals who are involved in the education and care of autistic children. To create awareness about autism, United Nations dedicated the 2nd April each year as World Autism Awareness Day. 

Consequently, the National Universities Commission in collaboration with Autism Support and Care Initiative (ASCI) is hosting a one day seminar to create awareness about Autism in Nigeria. 

3. AIM OF THE SEMINAR 

• To initiate the advocacy aspect of the proposed ACSljNUC initiative . 

• To create awareness among professionals, relevant stakeholders and the public about the existence of Autism in our society and the stigma associated with the disorder in this part of the world. 

• To stimulate discussion on the growing need for availability of expertise here in Nigeria in the field of 

• Special education with focus on Autism. 

• To explore priority direction in curriculum development in our Nigerian Universities in the field of 

• Special Education with a focus on Autism.  ' 

• To have robust discussions on processes which will lead to adopting inclusive and participatory consultation with relevant stakeholders including MDAs and development partners. 

• To begin conversations to foster National and International institutional collaboration in the field of Special Education with a focus on Autism. 

Who is to attend: 

Stakeholders in the field of Academics, Medicine, Education, Government and Politics; Parents, Care-givers 

and Members of the public. 

Date:

3rd April, 2014

Venue:

Idris Abdulkadair Auditorum, National Univeristies Commission, Aja NwaChukwu House, 26 Aguiyi-Ironsi Street Maitama, Abuja

Time: Prompt

Signed

Professor Julius A.Okojie, OON

Exwcutive Secretary, NUC