Photo: Syed Zakir Hossain/Dhaka Tribune

Most of us will never truly understand the needs that children with autism and other development disorders have

It is heartening to see that we are creating spaces for children with autism and special needs to showcase their talent, as CHILD foundation, in cooperation with the Faculty of Fine Arts of University of Dhaka (DU), has organized the annual art camp titled “Art For Autism 2020.”

This is the sort of event that, rather than discourage children with special needs, creates an atmosphere of encouragement, and brings to light their abilities and what is possible for them to achieve.

To that end, it is extremely important to encourage organizing more events such as Art for Autism for us as a nation -- they would help fight the stigma that exists towards people suffering from autism and other development disorders.

For too long, those with special needs, especially children, have continued to face cultural, social, and institutional stigma.

This is why we need to create more awareness in our society; most of us will never truly understand the needs that children with autism and other development disorders have. 

It is also important that we do not merely show pity on them; it is important that we recognize that what people with autism require is encouragement to feel confident and independent. 

Thus, we must become more empathetic and knowledgeable about their needs. This inclusion will not only help them flourish, but be a boost to our nation overall in the future as they become independent citizens contributing to the economy.

If we are indeed to fulfill our long-term visions of eventually becoming a developed nation, we must become a more inclusive society, one that encourages and develops these children and helps them reach their potential, despite the setbacks that may exist in their life.