Under the slogan: "Spectrum… A Journey of Understanding and Inclusion"

Shafallah Celebrates World Autism Awareness Day

Maryam Al-Suwaidi: The State has contributed to supporting and empowering individuals with autism for effective community inclusion

Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities celebrated World Autism Awareness Day under the slogan “Spectrum… A Journey of Understanding and Inclusion.” On this occasion, Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of Shafallah Center, stated that this celebration is an important opportunity to highlight the achievements of the State of Qatar in caring for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and its continued efforts to further integrate, support, and include this vital segment of society.

Al-Suwaidi praised the significant efforts made by the Shafallah Center in providing an appropriate environment for individuals with autism across all domains—academic, professional, and social. She pointed to the State’s special attention to persons with disabilities, including those with autism, which is clearly reflected in the launch of the National Autism Plan. This plan aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

The celebration of World Autism Awareness Day came in response to a proposal made by the State of Qatar, where Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, may God protect her, supported the campaign that called for designating a World Autism Awareness Day in 2007 during the 62nd session of the United Nations General Assembly. The proposal was unanimously approved by all member states, making April 2nd of every year officially recognized as World Autism Awareness Day.

The resolution encouraged member states to take necessary measures to raise awareness about autism within their societies.

Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of Shafallah Center, emphasized that the State—under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar—has shown full commitment to rehabilitating and integrating individuals with autism into society. The State has implemented plans and initiatives that help raise awareness among parents and specialists, and it has provided comprehensive and integrated services that have yielded positive results in developing the cognitive and developmental abilities of individuals with autism. These efforts aim to facilitate their daily lives and support the role of their families.

Ms. Al-Suwaidi added that Shafallah Center for Persons with Disabilities is actively working to adopt and support causes that empower individuals with autism, enabling their effective participation and integration into society. This allows them the opportunity to achieve personal fulfillment and assert their rights to live with dignity. She also emphasized that the Center needs ongoing support and cooperation from all government and private institutions and sectors in order to unify efforts and stand together for a better future for individuals with autism and their families.

She noted that the National Autism Plan is based on the Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to ensure a dignified life for future generations. Al-Suwaidi pointed out that ministries and related entities made significant efforts in preparing a comprehensive national plan that addresses the needs, directions, and aspirations that would lead to the achievement of set goals and inclusion of all segments of society—including persons with disabilities and, more specifically, individuals with autism.

Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi clarified that the Autism Department at Shafallah Center receives children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) of both genders from birth to three years old, and also offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs from age six to sixteen. After reaching the age of sixteen, they transition to the vocational training and rehabilitation department to receive professional training and job readiness services.

Comprehensive Educational and Rehabilitation Services for Individuals with Autism:

Shafallah Center provides comprehensive educational and rehabilitation services tailored to the individual needs and skill levels of people with autism. Each enrolled individual receives a Personalized Educational Plan (PEP) that outlines prioritized learning and skill development goals. This plan is considered an official document between the educator and the student’s family, forming the basis of focus throughout the academic year.

In the Autism Department, educational services are delivered within specialized classrooms, each hosting up to six students, grouped in a way that maximizes harmony and compatibility. These classrooms are overseen by qualified special education teachers and are designed to meet the physical and educational needs specific to individuals with autism.

The services provided are based on scientifically supported programs and evidence-based teaching methods that have proven effective in educating these individuals.

Implementing Skill Development Programs in Collaboration with Families:

Shafallah Center works to implement a range of programs aimed at developing the abilities of individuals with autism, in close collaboration with their families, who are considered essential partners in the process. This cooperation takes place through various communication channels.

Ms. Al-Suwaidi noted that skill development for enrolled individuals spans multiple areas, enabling them to overcome educational and behavioral challenges, and helping them reach their highest potential for independence and integration within society. The programs target a wide range of developmental domains, including: social and behavioral skills, academic and functional abilities, language and communication, daily living skills, motor skills and mobility, health and safety, social play skills, among others which are offered under internationally recognized educational programs and based on the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) approach, one of the most effective methodologies for educating and rehabilitating individuals with autism.

She also mentioned that participants receive weekly classes in adapted physical education, visual arts, and music education, according to targeted lesson plans and organized weekly schedules.

Therapeutic Services for Individuals with Autism at Shafallah Center:

Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of Shafallah Center, explained that the Autism Department offers diverse therapeutic and rehabilitation services through a multidisciplinary team. These services are provided in individual sessions lasting up to 40 minutes each and are specifically tailored to the unique needs and challenges of every enrolled individual.

The therapeutic services provided include: Speech and language therapy, Occupational therapy, Physical therapy, Nutritional services. In addition, individuals receive medical follow-ups and medication supervision through the center’s medical unit, as well as psychological and behavioral support services tailored to individuals with autism.

Shafallah Center Implements Leading Global Programs and Trusted Curricula in Autism Education:

Ms. Al-Suwaidi emphasized the center’s commitment to delivering diverse educational, rehabilitation, and skills-development services to individuals with autism using scientifically validated and globally trusted curricula. These programs are continuously updated to keep pace with the latest developments in autism education and are adapted to meet each individual's unique characteristics and needs.

One of the core approaches used at the Autism Department is the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) method—a well-established scientific approach rooted in behavioral psychology. This method has proven highly effective in educational and behavioral interventions for individuals with autism.

In this context, Al-Suwaidi confirmed the adoption of the Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) as one of the center’s key assessment tools. Based on the results of this assessment, an individualized educational plan is designed for each participant. This ensures that learning is functional, practical, and meaningful in the individual’s everyday life by prioritizing skills that help them overcome challenges in their surrounding environments.

She also noted that most of the educational staff at the center have received extensive training in how to apply and implement this program effectively.

Awareness Workshops for Families of Individuals with Autism Enrolled at the Center:

It is worth noting that Shafallah Center regularly conducts awareness and training sessions for families of enrolled individuals through a schedule of educational workshops, offered both in person and online. Families are invited and encouraged to attend these sessions, which include lectures, workshops, and training courses aimed at:

• Equipping them with practical skills for a better quality of life

• Supporting their mental well-being

• Boosting their confidence and knowledge

• Enhancing their ability to support their children with autism

These workshops aim to empower families and reinforce their vital role in caring for and supporting their children. They also provide practical strategies for improving communication, addressing behavioral challenges, and promoting skill development in children with autism.

Achievements of Individuals with Autism in Sports Festivals and Visual Arts:

Participants at Shafallah Center, who are individuals with autism, have made notable achievements in both sports competitions and visual arts festivals.

In sports, one of the center's participants won first place and received a gold medal, while another earned third place and a bronze medal at the 3rd Swimming Festival 2024, organized in collaboration with Esporta Academy, the Qatar Paralympic Committee, and the Qatar Society for Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities. The festival was held over two days.

Additionally, one of the participants with autism secured second place in the freestyle swimming race at the National Swimming Championship for the Special Olympics 2025, which took place at Al-Owsaj Academy.

In the field of visual arts, one of Shafallah’s participants with autism won first place for their artwork as part of the “Shafallah – Bridge of Nations: Tapestry of Art” initiative, which took place in its first edition. This initiative was organized in collaboration with Bridging Nations Organization, the Academy of Arts, Sciences, and Letters in Paris, and coordinated with the Embassy of the French Republic in Qatar. The artistic workshops for this event were held from February 16th to 20th, 2025 at the Youth Center affiliated with Qatar Museums.

Autism and the Right to Work:

Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of Shafallah Center, emphasized the right of individuals with disabilities, including those with autism, to work on equal terms with others. This right includes the opportunity to choose or accept a job freely in an open job market and work environment, which is accessible and inclusive for people with autism.

She further stressed that individuals with autism should be protected by laws that ensure fair and equitable working conditions, including: equal opportunities, fair pay for equal work, safe and healthy working conditions, access to technical and vocational programs, career counseling and continuous training, and support in finding and maintaining jobs, as well as returning to work if needed.

Ms. Al-Suwaidi emphasized the importance of creating a work environment that is welcoming and supportive for individuals with autism, helping them integrate successfully into the workforce.

Ms. Maryam Saif Al-Suwaidi, Executive Director of Shafallah Center, shared that the center celebrated World Autism Awareness Day by organizing a series of activities and awareness initiatives. These efforts included:

• Encouraging all ministries and institutions in Qatar to light up their buildings in blue, in honor of World Autism Awareness Day.

• Community awareness campaign at Al Hazm Mall, under the theme (Autism Spectrum: Understanding and Inclusion). This campaign featured a sensory experience journey that took visitors through a closed space designed to simulate what individuals with autism experience. The goal was to build awareness of the sensory challenges faced by individuals with autism, by allowing the public to experience intense lights, loud sounds, and visual patterns similar to those encountered by people on the spectrum.

• Media awareness through digital screens in prominent locations, such as Al Jaber Towers, Al Fardan Towers, The View Hospital, Tawar Mall, and Hamad International Airport, where awareness messages about autism were broadcast.

• Qatar Airways contributed by distributing small travel bags to passengers, featuring an informational autism awareness ribbon.

• Collaboration with delivery apps to distribute autism awareness cards alongside customer orders.

Social media campaigns to spread awareness about autism and encourage community engagement across various platforms.