Qatar Foundation Dedicates Month to Autism Awareness with Community Events Qatar

Qatar Foundation has dedicated an entire month to raising autism awareness through a series of community-driven activities and events. The events, coordinated by various QF Pre-University Education entities including Renad Academy, Awsaj Academy, The Learning Center, and Ability Friendly Program, took place in Education City. These included educational programs, family activities, workshops, performances, and discussions, all designed to foster a greater understanding and integration of people with autism in the community.

Highlights included the annual Autism Awareness Family Fun Day at Al Shaqab, where attendees like Talal Mohammed Al-Ali, a parent of a child at Renad Academy, participated actively to enhance community engagement and awareness. Al-Ali stressed the importance of including children with autism in social activities to develop their social skills and reduce isolation.

Maha Al-Binali, another parent, emphasized the positive impact of these events on societal understanding and acceptance of autism. She encouraged parents to seek early intervention for signs of autism, highlighting the potential for children with autism to learn and adapt with appropriate support.

Additionally, a dialogue workshop titled 'Elevating Inclusivity and Awareness of Autism through Collaborations' was hosted by QF, underscoring its commitment to supporting individuals with autism and their families. The month also featured a modified theatrical performance, “SHOWTIME!”, adjusted to accommodate sensory sensitivities, and the ‘Rifd’ Parent Training Program's ‘Unity of Minds’ online workshops, aimed at enhancing understanding and empathy for autism through expert community interaction.