Support for Children with Autism in Tajikistan

IRODA has been thankful for the partnership of numerous professionals in the field of autism who have visited Tajikistan over the years and supported the development of IRODA’s work. Recently we were very pleased to have another visit from Dr. Karim Rajput, a psychiatrist from the UK, who also himself has a son with autism.  

With the support of Dr. Karim meetings were held with doctors, and representatives from the Ministry of Health, to continue to discuss the way forward for more effective diagnosis of autism and official recognition of the diagnosis in Tajikistan.  Dr. Karim’s support during these meetings was very helpful for IRODA in advocating for effective and efficient processes that support children and their families as early as possible. 

Meetings with parents were also held and Dr. Karim was able to provide support in particular around issues relating to adolescents with autism.  This was very relevant for the growing number of families of young adults that IRODA now supports.  Dr. Karim also has the ability to support fathers of children and young people with autism by drawing on his own personal experience.  This too has been a much needed contribution to the support of families in Tajikistan. 

IRODA has been fortunate to have connected with dedicated and experienced professionals who give of their time and energy to contribute to the work in Tajikistan.  We’re thankful for your support that helps us to host meetings, training and much needed support groups for parents in collaboration with excellent professionals such as Dr. Karim. 

• Dr Karim Training Professionals (PDF)
  

Once again IRODA is making the most of the opportunity that international autism awareness month present in April.  There is much still to be done to decrease stigma and increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism in Tajikistan. 

An exciting public event was held on April the 7^th to continue to create awareness amongst Tajik society.  Based on the theme song released by a popular Tajik singer last year during autism awareness month, the event was entitled “Dar Yak Zamin (on one earth) – You will not be alone anymore”.    With support from partner organisations (FLEX Alumni Program, ‘Peshraft’, Tajik Slavonic University, UPER, Tajik Community of Toronto, KIMEP University of Kazakstan, ‘Dushabe Molle’, ‘Dunei Nav’, ‘Ustodesign and ‘Shodi Allegria’) IRODA created an event involving music, dance and audiovisuals that captured the attention of the public and the media. 

Thank you for your support that enabled IRODA to put on a high-profile event to continue to share the message of acceptance and understanding.  We will keep working hard to see it become truly known to all children and young people with autism that “you are not alone anymore” but rather embraced by families and communities living together “on one earth”.