1st Gulf Autism Conference

The 1st Gulf Autism Conference took place in Muscat from 24-26 January 2020 and represented an important opportunity to advocate for an integrated approach to inclusion of children with disabilities. 

In cooperation with the Ministry of Social Development, and with the support of the Ministry of Health, Sultan Qaboos University and the Gulf Health Council, UNICEF organised a panel discussion titled “Early Identification and Early Intervention Strategies: What Can We Learn from Their Experience with Autism?” 

More than 1,900 national and international experts, ministers and other officials, academics, and parents of children with autism attended the session. 

The main takeaway from the discussion was that early identification of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), early intervention, and their inclusion in the mainstream education system can greatly benefit these children and can ultimately help them achieve their full potential.

UNICEF Oman also supported workshops on early identification, intervention and inclusion of children with disabilities reflecting the new disability classification system that is being developed by the Government.

UNICEF’s vision is to build a world where every child grows up healthy, educated and protected from harm, and can reach their full potential. All children – including children with disabilities, including children with ASD – have ambitions and dreams for their future. Every day we are working to make this vision a reality.

Lana Al Wreikat, UNICEF Representative to Oman