Manama : The Kingdom of Bahrain marks World Autism Awareness Day annually on April 2, underscoring its commitment to promoting the rights of persons with autism and ensuring an inclusive environment in line with international standards.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Bahrain Association for Parents and Friends of the Disabled, highlighted Bahrain’s integrated approach, combining governmental, civil, and private sector efforts to promote equality and empower persons with disabilities. She emphasised that this reflects the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and supported by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to protect the rights of all citizens.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali noted that, as of March 2024, 1,662 individuals in Bahrain were registered as persons with autism, according to Ministry of Health data. She said the Kingdom supports inclusive education in public and private schools and offers rehabilitation and training programmes that improve employment opportunities. Early screening for autism is also available through the Ministry of Health to enable timely intervention and improve quality of life.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali emphasised Bahrain’s commitment to international agreements, noting that the Kingdom has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and works closely with UNICEF, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and leading institutions in diagnosis and rehabilitation.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali reiterated the association’s commitment to integrating persons with autism through sustainable development programmes, including educational, therapeutic, and family support services at its centres, such as Alia for Early Intervention Alia Rehabilitation Centre.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali also outlined plans for the Nasmah Community project, an inclusive, self-sustaining community for persons with disabilities, particularly autism. The project will offer supported housing, vocational workshops, training spaces, a mosque, organic garden, a café, and store operated by individuals with autism. Its sustainability model includes tuition fees, donations, partnerships, and agricultural and artisan production.
The association is expanding private sector partnerships to offer meaningful employment, citing the Hala by Alia café and bakery, run entirely by young people with autism, as a leading model for economic inclusion.
Dr. Shaikha Rania bint Ali underscored the association’s commitment to advancing autism-related initiatives and strengthening collaboration across sectors to enhance awareness and empower individuals with autism.
