The Department of Psychology at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) hosted a seminar titled “Understanding Autism: Breaking Down Barriers” at the Fatima Block auditorium.
The event aimed to promote awareness, understanding, and practical strategies for supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.
Dr. Nazia Iqbal, Head of the Department of Psychology, inaugurated the seminar by highlighting the urgent need to address the challenges faced by autistic children. She stressed the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment to help them thrive in society.
The seminar featured three expert speakers who provided valuable insights into autism. Dr. Kehkashan Arouj, Assistant Professor at IIUI’s Department of Psychology, explained the symptoms, types, and effects of autism on individuals and families. She emphasized the critical role of early diagnosis and intervention in improving developmental outcomes.
Ms. Hafsa Mushtaq, a Speech and Language Pathologist, discussed communication difficulties in autistic individuals and shared therapeutic techniques to enhance speech and social interaction. She highlighted how structured therapy can empower individuals with autism to express themselves more effectively.
Ms. Tehreem Bangash, Head of the Early Intervention Therapy Unit, presented on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, detailing its effectiveness in improving behavior, social skills, and learning abilities in autistic individuals. She also demonstrated practical ABA techniques for caregivers and educators.
Dr. Amna Mehmood , In-Charge of the Female Campus, spoke on the broader responsibility of society in nurturing all children, including those with autism. She encouraged parents and educators to adopt patience, understanding, and tailored support strategies to meet the unique needs of autistic children.
The seminar concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Manzoor Khan Afridi, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, who thanked the speakers, attendees, and organizers for their contributions. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to promoting autism awareness and fostering an inclusive society.
The event provided attendees with a deeper understanding of autism and practical approaches to support individuals with ASD. Participants expressed optimism and a shared determination to create a more accepting and accommodating environment for the autism community.