Autism Awareness month closes off with Acceptance Outreach by SEN Unit

Autism Awareness Month 2022, was closed off by the Special Education Needs Unit (SEN) of the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD), with an Acceptance Outreach held at NCERD in Kingston, Georgetown.

Ms. Savvie Hopkinson, National SEN Officer said that the activities held during the outreach are aimed at accelerating the formation of the desired attitudes, bring about changes and produce actions beneficial to those of our population who have Special Education Needs or live with disabilities and especially those on the autism spectrum.

Hopkinson noted that Thursday’s event provided the opportunity to provide information to members of the public and provide available services to persons with disabilities. She stressed that Thursday’s event featured an information booth, teaching and learning resources and highlights on autism and how to become more accepting of persons affected.

It was noted that representatives of the Regional Special Education Needs and Disability Diagnostic and Treatment Centre including its Coordinator, Mr. Keon Cheong were also present to conduct assessment and evaluative procedures for children. It was disclosed that the Step by Step Foundation which serves and supports children on the autism spectrum also participated to provide information and guidance.

Additionally, the Health Ministry also partnered with the Ministry on Thursday to provide ear and eye testing services.

Meanwhile, Ms. Omwattie Ramdin, Head of Curriculum, prior to declaring the event open pointed out that the day must come when there will no longer be a need for awareness activities as there will be greater acceptance by society.

Ramdin added that she was very proud of the SEN Unit and the work done to help learners who have special education needs and bring awareness to autism and other learning disabilities.