A new communication program launched at Dubai Autism Center for children with autism 'Philip Morris' supports

The program goes in line with the latest international practices in the field of speech and communication therapy. It presents new equipments, tools and technology software that assist children with autism to interact positively expressing their needs and desires as well as asking questions at any time in different environments.

The program is a project of two phases which is supported by Philip Morris International through its office in Dubai.

During the first phase, the project focused on training the therapists at the Dubai Autism Center, introducing to them the new techniques of this program which created more interactive environment in the classes. These techniques have been also shared through many local conferences at some stage in last year.

Mr. Mohammad Al Emadi, Director General of the DAC, emphasized the importance of this program and highly praised Philip Morris' initiative in adopting this program benefiting more than 40 children enrolled at the Center.

George Nassif, member of the management team and Director of Corporate Affairs at Philip Morris Management Services - Middle East, commented: "We are proud of our continuous support to DAC over the past five years. Our relation with the Center allowed us to support an important part of the special needs sector as well as assist in providing alternative tools for communication for autistic students to enhance their individual self-esteem. Our contribution is in fact a reflection of our vision and mission of interacting with and responding to important social issues in countries where Philip Morris International operates in and where our employees live and work."

Dr. Mohammed Fteiha, Head of Speech and Communication Unit at the DAC said, "The program will initially benefit 48 students enrolled at the Center. The first phase of the program enhanced the Augmentative Alternative Communication and it updated the learning materials with the latest technology. However, the second phase of the program will focus on providing different tools of the Assistive Technology, training programs for the staff, and issuing a series of books related to communication disorder for children with autism."