Sidumisile Mabena
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
STAKEHOLDERS in Matabeleland South have called for strengthened early diagnosis systems and improved support structures for children with autism, as Gwanda held an awareness seminar aimed at improving understanding of the condition at community level.
The seminar, held on Friday at Mishies Gwanda Hotel conference centre, was organised by the Gwanda Autism Association in partnership with Baobab Educational Assessments Centre as part of activities marking Autism Awareness Month.
It brought together parents, educators, healthcare workers and local leaders, with discussions focusing on early identification of autism spectrum disorder, classroom support strategies and community-based care approaches.
Eight speakers addressed the event, including specialists from Baobab Educational Assessments Centre, Gwanda Autism Association chairperson Ms Martha Mutiunovava and special needs consultant Ms Barbara Chingwena.
Speakers said delayed diagnosis and limited access to specialised services continue to affect children’s access to appropriate learning support, particularly in rural districts where awareness and assessment services remain limited.
Baobab Educational Assessments Centre spokesperson Mr Petersen Francis said community engagement on autism was gradually improving but gaps remain in early intervention.
“Today’s turnout shows that Gwanda is ready to have honest, informed conversations about autism,” he said.
“But many families are still struggling with access to timely assessments and professional support services.”
Some parents who attended the seminar said lack of awareness in schools and communities often results in children with autism being misunderstood or excluded from mainstream learning environments.
They called for improved teacher training and closer collaboration between schools, health professionals and families.
Representatives from the Rural District Council also attended the seminar and outlined available local development programmes and funding mechanisms that support disability inclusion initiatives at community level.
The seminar included question-and-answer sessions and networking forums designed to connect families with professionals offering psycho-educational assessments and learning support services.
Ms Mutiunovava said the discussions reflected ongoing efforts to strengthen awareness and improve inclusion within the district.
“Awareness is the first step to acceptance. We appreciate the participation of parents, teachers and professionals who attended,” she said.
Organisers said the seminar forms part of broader outreach programmes aimed at expanding access to assessments, training and support services for children with autism across Matabeleland South.
The Gwanda Autism Association advocates for the rights and inclusion of individuals with autism, while Baobab Educational Assessments Centre provides psycho-educational assessments and learning support services.
Autism Awareness Month is observed globally in April to promote understanding of autism spectrum disorder and encourage early diagnosis and intervention.
Online Reporter