Support for Children with Autism in Tajikistan

The 29^thof September saw IRODA host an exciting event in Tajikistan to both raise awareness and funds.  Charity Ball and Fashion Show, “The Inner Voice of Beauty”, was supported by prominent Tajik fashion designer, Nafisa Imranova and musical group ‘Avesta’, and showcased the skills of young people with autism and other disabilities.

As IRODA’s work has grown the need for a centre (in addition to the rooms that IRODA uses within the mainstream school) has become essential.  There are now many young adults with autism requiring specialist support for skills development, higher education and vocational training.  To date there are no appropriate opportunities for these young adults within other services and IRODA has ‘outgrown’ the current spaces where it’s work is located. “The Inner Voice of Beauty” was part of IRODA’s ongoing efforts to highlight the skills and abilities of people with autism, as well as their own initiative to raise funds towards a Centre for Social & Professional Development for young adults with autism. 

Thank you for joining with IRODA in their efforts to raise awareness of autism in Tajikistan, and in helping to raise the much-needed funds for their growing work. 

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)