BY FIONA MOTSA
MBABANE– The organization for people living with autism, Autism Eswatini, has pleaded with teachers in local schools to enroll children with autism in their schools.
This plea came from Autism Eswatini Founding Executive Director Tryphina Mvubu who said that since schools were about to open for 2023, children living with autism also needed to go to school where they would be accepted and respected.
“We are also asking teachers that once they have accepted children with special needs to realise that they need more attention and patience than other children. This is because they have a short span of attention and their success depends on individual learning. This is something all teachers must be aware of because they require special attention,” said Mvubu.
Mvubu further emphasised parents must take children living with autism to school.
“We would first like to encourage parents of children who are living with autism, ADHD and Down Syndrome to take their children to school as soon as they reach school-going age. Parents need to ensure that this child’s right to education is exercised despite all the challenges. It is important not to hide them or feel ashamed about them,” said Mvubu.
Mvubu further mentioned that they had programs to assist teachers in learning more about autism.
“We have programs for teachers whereby they will be taught how to help and teach children with autism as well as being able to spot the symptoms.
“These children need protection because they are often victimized, beaten or bullied. The school’s environment should be conducive for the children with special needs,” said the Founding Executive Director.
