'Live with Autism' conference at Dubai Women's College

The conference was launched in collaboration with Roots Social Support Group (volunteer group working under UAE chess federation) to raise awareness of autism disorders and address the importance of diagnosing autism in the early stages.

The conference was attended by his Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mubarak Al Nahayan, Minister of higher education and scientific research, chancellor of the higher colleges of technology, Ambassador H.E Remigio M. Maradona, IIMSAM director general and the head of observer delegation to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, Dr. Hanif Hassan, Minister of Education and Mrs. Mariam Al Roumi, Minister of Social Affairs. The conference was also attended by representatives from educational, social and health sectors.

At his speech, His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan spoke about the good leadership in United Arab Emirates led by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Prime Minister and Vice-President and Ruler of Dubai and their continuous efforts to support children with special needs and provide opportunities for them to merge into the mainstream and become effective members of the society.

He also pointed out that early diagnosis of the disease is very vital and also stressed on the importance of providing financial and moral support for the families of the patients.

H.E Remigio M. Maradona addressed autism in his speech. He said "Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others."

He also added, "There is an urgent need to recognize, realize, and emphasize with the imperative need to address the crucial issue on a priority basis; and more importantly to take concrete actions especially in the context of developing and the least developed countries."

Minister of Education, His Excellency Dr. Hanif Hassan also shared a word with audience which highlighted the current and future plans aimed at supporting people with special needs, especially autistic children. He also emphasized the importance of raising awareness among students, teachers, and parents in the United Arab Emirates through education.

He also pointed out that the Ministry of Education has created a special section to improve the condition of students with various disabilities. He said, "Our fundamental goal emphasizes on enabling children with special needs to get better education and we have initiated a new program for the integration of people with special needs in general education schools. As a first step, we are planning to build 10 schools to accommodate people with disabilities and health conditions in coordination with universities and specialized centers in the field of education."

The event included an exhibition of artwork and drawings by children from the Autism Centers in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services which highlights their talent and creativity.