Hon’ble Lady inaugurates National Autism Centre

Muscat - Honourable Lady Sayyida Ahad bint Abdullah bin Hamed al Busaidi, Spouse of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, inaugurated the Ministry of Social Development’s National Autism Centre in Al Khoud, Seeb, on Thursday.

The first of its kind in the sultanate, the centre is a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Social Development and Oman LNG. It is designed to provide cutting-edge rehabilitation and treatment services for autistic individuals across all ages using the latest programmes to enable social inclusion and independence.

The Honourable Lady visited the centre’s facilities and witnessed the services offered to beneficiaries, including behavioural, occupational and speech and language therapies, as well as vocational rehabilitation.

She also visited simulation rooms, specifically built to help build capabilities and skills of autistic individuals, besides allowing familiarity and tolerance for day-to-day activities.

Additionally, the Honourable Lady was briefed about the recreational activities at the centre that range from music and swimming to playrooms and sports corners.

The Honourable Lady conferred with several caretakers and specialists at the centre. She expressed her gratitude for their untiring efforts and dedication towards the autistic community. She valued their integral role in fostering diversity and inclusion within the community.

The Honourable Lady later attended a play titled ‘Innovators Factory’, which highlighted the talents and creativity of autistic children, as well as the role of the centre in developing these talents and integrating them with society.

At the end of her visit, the Honourable Lady received a commemorative gift from Dr Laila Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development.

The National Autism Centre is spread over a total area of 23,600sqm, with the main building covering 5,225sqm. The project was set up at a cost of Ro2.5mn and accommodates 120 autistic individuals.