Inclusivity and awareness were the key messages on International Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2. The day aims to recognise individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), raise awareness, and improve their quality of life by fostering greater integration into society.
Founder of Khanyisa Developmental Centre, Amy Rodger, emphasised the importance of awareness in dispelling myths and fostering hope for autistic individuals.
“It’s a day where we can maximise efforts to eliminate stigmas and build positive narratives around autism,” she said.
Based in Durban North, the center currently caters to 70 children with autism. Rodger highlighted some key challenges faced by autistic individuals, including heightened sensitivity to environmental changes such as sound, light, and routine disruptions, as well as regression in skills like speech and motor abilities.
Nikki Simons, Director of the Neurodiversity Centre KZN and a clinical psychologist, urged society to move beyond mere awareness and take concrete steps toward inclusion.
“Today, we come together not only to raise awareness about autism but also to create a society where every person, regardless of their differences, is celebrated and supported,” she said.
Simons described ASD as a complex developmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. While autistic people may face unique challenges, they also possess remarkable strengths.
“Autism is not a condition that needs fixing—it is a natural variation of human experience,” she emphasised.
She highlighted the need for early intervention, psychoeducation, social support, and tailored educational approaches that respect individual needs.
Action in Autism (AIA) clinical psychologist, Sduduzo Mncwabe, stressed the importance of recognising the human rights of autistic individuals. He pointed out that inclusion should extend to education, employment, and social spaces that accommodate sensory and communication needs.
“Autism awareness is also about continued advocacy for children to access early interventions such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and appropriate schooling. Likewise, adults should have access to employment opportunities, especially in a country where unemployment rates for people with disabilities remain unacceptably high,” he stated.
Mncwabe further explained that early signs of autism in children (ages 1-2) include:
– Delayed speech development
– Lack of response to their name
– Difficulty following a pointing gesture
– Limited facial expressions
– Lack of engagement in social play, such as peek-a-boo
In older children, challenges may include difficulty understanding others’ emotions and social cues.
Challenging Misconceptions
Prashant Parusnath, an AIA Advocate Officer and autistic individual, highlighted the need for better understanding and support for autistic people.
“Even in 2025, autism remains poorly understood. One of the biggest misconceptions is that autistic people lack empathy. We do have empathy, but autism can affect our ability to read body language and express emotions effectively,” he explained.
The overarching message of International Autism Awareness Day is clear: Autism is not a limitation—it is a different way of experiencing the world. With greater awareness, acceptance, and support, society can create a more inclusive environment where autistic individuals can thrive.
