RO1.15mn autism centre to come up in Ibri
Muscat - Occidental Oman and the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) have signed an agreement to fund the construction of the first autism centre in Dhahirah governorate at a cost of US$3mn (approx RO1.15mn).
The centre will provide the much-needed education and care to children in the area who do not have access to such specialised treatment. The centre will also be the first of its kind in the wilayat of Ibri where Occidental Oman concession areas are located.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Social Development under the auspices of H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Said al Kalbani, Minister of Social Development. Stephen Kelly, president and general manager of Occidental Oman, and H E Sheikh Kalbani were signatories for their respective organisations.
The agreement will fund the construction of the Autism Center next to Al Wafa Center in Ibri.
The centre will provide a broad range of therapies, and plans to accommodate up to 100 children diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at a time, from all areas of Dhahirah. These will include a combination of behaviour therapy, speechlanguage therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training and feeding therapy.
“We are incredibly excited to sponsor the construction of the first autism centre in Dhahirah governorate, as we are always looking to the needs of our local communities in our concession areas,” said Kelly.
“The access to support and services for autistic individuals is globally limited, so Occidental Oman is keen to address this important cause, and support the education, welfare, and wellbeing of Omani youth who are most in need of this care. We look forward to the progress of the Autism Center’s construction.”