From navigating life transitions, to addressing puberty and adulthood challenges, to developing early support programs for children to guiding parents and educators, experts on autism will x-ray spectrum of possibilities for special care children at the 2024 GTCO Autism Conference.
Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by deficits in reciprocal social communication and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour comes with signs which include difficulty with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, along with perseverative interests, stereotypic body movements, rigid routines, and hyper- or hyporeactivity to sensory input.
Experts have said in a bid to help children with autism survive and adept to society is to create more awareness on how to deal with the issues around the disorder.
This is why, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) has again announced dates for its 2024 GTCO Autism Program.
Themed ‘A Spectrum of Possibilities, This year’s program would promote inclusivity, self-advocacy, and empowerment for persons on the Autism Spectrum.
The theme is said to align with GTCO’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and its goal of creating a society where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their background or abilities.
Now in its 14th edition, this year’s theme acknowledges and celebrates this diversity, recognizing that each person living with autism has their own unique strengths, challenges, and potential.
The GTCO Autism Program, a flagship project under the Orange Ribbon Initiative, has established itself as a beacon of hope and a reference point for autism advocacy and intervention in Africa.
Over the years, the program has made significant impact, providing support and empowerment to thousands of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.
In collaboration with specialists and partner organizations from Nigeria and outside Nigeria, the program will feature lectures, panel discussions, and performances carefully prepared to showcase the diverse talents that exist in the autism community.
The program will also create a platform where families and guardians can connect with experts and share experiences and insights. This interactive platform will facilitate meaningful discussions and knowledge sharing on various aspects of autism.
In Nigeria, the program will hold on the 15th and 16th of July at the Muson Centre, Lagos, whilst the free one-on-one clinic consultations will open from July 17th to 20th at the Chapel of Light, Alausa, Ikeja. Meanwhile, in Ghana, the activities will begin with a workshop on the 23rd of July at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Ghana, and consultations will last from July 23rd to 27th at the same venue.
Commenting on the 2024 GTCO Autism Program, Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, stated: “Everyone has something special to offer, and we want to help individuals with autism succeed and lead healthy, supportive lives. By embracing autism as a strength, and not a weakness, we can help individuals with ASD find their passion, develop skills, and make meaningful impact in society.”
He added: “We are learning more about autism every day, and we are dedicated to using that knowledge to make a positive difference. We believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life, and we are committed to making that possible; by working together, we can build a society that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and empowers everyone to thrive.”
Some of the speakers at this year’s autism program would speak on various topics such as using antecedent manipulations to improve learning and behaviour, fundamental communication strategies, enhancing life skills and independence through technology, and management strategies and support amongst others.
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