Berea — The district coordinator for the Lesotho National Federation of Organisations of the Disabled (LNFOD), Mrs. Motheba Mpota Makara highlighted on Thursday the challenges faced by people living with autism as the world marks Autism Awareness Day.
In an interview with the agency, Mrs. Makara said that people with autism often face difficulties in being understood by parents, guardians, siblings, and society at large.
“Another challenge is their right to education, as many are unable to attend schools or be taught in ways that meet their needs,” she said. She added that societal rejection makes life more isolating and challenging for autistic individuals.
Mrs. Makara also raised concerns about service providers, noting that some do not treat autistic people appropriately. She urged providers to adopt more respectful approaches and ensure that people with autism can access services they are entitled to.
She further called on society to learn more about autism and shift perceptions, emphasizing that greater awareness could lead to a more inclusive environment. Mrs. Makara expressed hope that the number of doctors and experts supporting autistic individuals in Lesotho would increase, noting that currently, they are very few.
World Autism Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the need for understanding, inclusion, and support for people living with autism, encouraging communities to break down barriers, and create opportunities for all.
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