A roundtable discussion titled "Autism and Humanity: Equal Dignity in Bangladesh" was held in the capital with the aim of protecting the rights of individuals with autism, ensuring their dignity, and building an inclusive society.
The event was organized on Friday at the National Press Club by the Foundation for Advancement of Innovations in Technology and Health (FAITH Bangladesh).
Md. Tarikul Alam, Managing Director (Additional Secretary) of the National Foundation for the Development of Persons with Disabilities, attended as the chief guest. Special guests included Mrs. Mushayela Karim, Chairman of Inner Wheel District 345, and Dr. K M Hasan, Executive Director (Skills) Daffodil Group.
The discussion, chaired by Dr. Aftab Uddin, Chairman of FAITH Bangladesh, highlighted that autism is not only a health issue but also a significant social and humanitarian concern. Citing global research, speakers noted that parents of children with autism experience higher levels of mental stress compared to others, a reality that is also evident in Bangladesh.
Speakers further emphasized that due to social stigma, discrimination, and lack of awareness, families of individuals with autism face numerous challenges daily. They stressed the need for effective government policies alongside widespread public awareness to address these issues.
The roundtable was attended by experts and representatives from various service organizations, including Dr. Muneem Ahmed, Country Director of Orbis International, as well as participants from the University of Dhaka and Jahangirnagar University. The event was moderated by Nilufar Ahmed Karim, Executive Director of FAITH Bangladesh.
It is worth mentioning that since 2014, FAITH Bangladesh has been working for the development of children with autism and special needs. Its initiative, "Brighter Life School," has been playing a significant role in providing quality education and services to children with special needs. The event was supported by Orbis International and various branches of the Inner Wheel Club.
Imdadul Haque Talukdar (Senior Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration), Professor Tahmina Akhtar Toffee (University of Dhaka), S.K. Moniruzzaman (BHPI), Colonel Md. Altaf Ali (PROYASH), Professor Sharmin Ahmed (University of Dhaka), Dr. Farzana Islam Rupa (Public Health Foundation), Professor Sharmind Neelormi (Jahangirnagar University), Sajeda Akhtar (President, Inner Wheel Club of Lobelia Dhaka), Razia Sultana (President, Inner Wheel Club of Oasis Dhaka), Shamima Siraji (Senior Research Investigator, icddr,b), Pratik Ejaj (Joint Editor, Samakal; President, Bangladesh Health Reporters Forum), Farhana Naznin (The Daily Observer), Syeda Munira Islam (RTV), Farzana Abedin (SRAC), Marufa Hossain (Director, Tauri Foundation), Dr. Mashreka Jesmin Mouri (MBBS, CCD, DMU, ADMU - Islami Bank Central Hospital), Mariam Monowar (AWF), Kohinur Akhtar (Lead - Special Education, Brighter Life School), among others were also participated of the round table discussion.
