Autism Day: Stakeholders urge govt to mandate special departments in schools

By Umar Sani Yakubu

Medical doctors, parents and caregivers have called on government and policymakers to mandate the establishment of special departments in schools to cater for children living with autism.

The call was made on Thursday in Bauchi during activities marking the World Autism Awareness Day.

Speaking with our correspondent at the event, a parent, Sabiratu Aliyu, who said she has eight children, four of whom are autistic at different levels, stressed the urgent need for structured support systems in schools.

According to her, children with autism require specialised care, learning environments and tailored activities to help them develop their potential.

She said, “These children are not the same; they have different challenges and need special attention. Programs like this are very important because they educate parents on how to care for them.

“They need special schools, special care and proper support. Government should create dedicated departments in schools so these children can be properly taken care of.”

Aliyu added that many families are unaware of autism and its symptoms, calling on media organisations to intensify awareness through radio and television programmes.

“You will not understand the magnitude of this issue until you attend gatherings like this. There are many children living with autism in our society, more than people expect. We need government support because individuals cannot do it alone,” she said.

Also speaking, the State Coordinator of Spark a Spectrum in Bauchi, Happiness Jonas, said the programme was organised in collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH).

Jonas noted that the 2026 theme, “Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value,” highlights the importance of inclusion and recognition of children living with autism.

She expressed satisfaction with the turnout of parents and children, urging government to recognise and invest in their potential.

“These children are gifted in their own ways. Government needs to recognise them and create opportunities for them to thrive,” she said.