Breaking Barriers: Embracing Autism Awareness in Pakistan
By Tahir Ali Shah
Nasreen was three years old when her parents began to notice
something different about her. Unlike other children of her age, she rarely
made eye contact, did not respond to her name, and seemed lost in her own
world. Her father, a schoolteacher in Peshawar, initially dismissed her
behavior as shyness. However, her mother sensed that something was amiss.
Doctors, relatives, and even neighbors offered varying opinions. Some suggested
that she would grow out of it, while others blamed poor parenting. It was not
until Nasreen turned five that she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder
(ASD). By then, valuable years had been lost due to a lack of awareness, and
her parents felt uncertain about where to seek help.
Nasreen’s story is not unique. Thousands of children in
Pakistan struggle with autism, yet many remain undiagnosed or receive
inadequate support due to stigma, misinformation, and a lack of specialized
services. As the world observes International Autism Awareness Day, Pakistan
must acknowledge the challenges faced by autistic individuals and take
meaningful steps towards their inclusion and empowerment.
International Autism Day, also known as World Autism
Awareness Day, is celebrated annually on April 2nd worldwide, including in
Pakistan. This day is recognized by the United Nations to raise awareness,
promote acceptance of autism, and support individuals with autism and their
families. In Pakistan, various organizations, educational institutions, and
government agencies observe this day by organizing awareness campaigns, events,
and activities aimed at promoting the inclusion and acceptance of autistic individuals.
According to global estimates, approximately 1 in 100
children is diagnosed with autism, although the exact prevalence in Pakistan
remains unclear due to limited research and underreporting. A study conducted
by Aga Khan University suggests that neurodevelopmental disorders, including
autism, are on the rise in Pakistan; however, the country lacks proper data
collection and diagnostic frameworks. Early intervention is critical for
autistic children, yet Pakistan faces severe shortages of trained professionals,
special education teachers, and therapy centers.
One of the biggest hurdles is the stigma associated with autism. In many Pakistani households, neurological disorders are either misunderstood or completely overlooked due to societal pressure. Families often grapple with feelings of shame, and in extreme cases, autistic children are hidden from public view or denied an education. This lack of acceptance not only impacts the child but also places an emotional and financial burden on parents, as specialized care is expensive and primarily available in urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
Education for autistic children in Pakistan is another area
of concern. Most mainstream schools lack the infrastructure and trained staff
to accommodate neurodivergent students. The few special education institutes
that exist are often overcrowded or unaffordable for the majority. As a result,
many autistic children are deprived of an education, limiting their future
prospects. Countries like the United Kingdom and the United States have
inclusive education models that integrate autistic children into mainstream
classrooms with specialized support. Pakistan must adopt similar policies to
ensure that no child is left behind.
Healthcare services for individuals with autism remain
insufficient. Speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral
interventions are crucial for supporting autistic individuals, yet these
services are often costly and difficult to access. Public hospitals rarely have
autism specialists, while private therapy centers charge exorbitant fees, which
makes it challenging for middle- and lower-income families to afford the
necessary care. The government must take urgent action to expand
autism-friendly healthcare services and provide subsidies for families in need.
On a policy level, Pakistan has made some progress, but much
more needs to be done. The Punjab government, for instance, has taken steps to
include autism in disability rights legislation; however, implementation
remains weak. There is an urgent need for a nationwide policy that focuses on
early diagnosis, inclusive education, financial support for families, and
public awareness campaigns. Autism is not a disease to be cured but rather a
different way of experiencing the world. Acceptance and support can enable
autistic individuals to thrive, contribute to society, and lead fulfilling
lives.
Pakistan should take inspiration from global best practices.
Countries like Sweden and Canada have developed strong frameworks that provide
autistic individuals with educational, social, and economic opportunities.
Pakistan should invest in teacher training programs, establish more special
education centers, and create employment opportunities for autistic adults.
Additionally, launching awareness campaigns in schools, colleges, universities,
workplaces, and communities can help dismantle myths and foster a culture of
acceptance.
As we observe International Autism Awareness Day, let us
commit to building an inclusive Pakistan where every autistic child, like
Nasreen, receives the support they need to flourish. Autism is not a
limitation; it is a different way of being. With the right care, education, and
societal acceptance, autistic individuals can reach their full potential and
contribute meaningfully to our nation’s progress.
About the Author:
Tahir Ali Shah is a humanitarian professional with over 20 years of experience managing protection and development programs across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. He has worked extensively in refugee response, child protection, and humanitarian advocacy.
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