DVC-ARSA Prof Faith Nguru addressing the participants of the Autism Spectrum workshop

The DVC Academic, Research and Student Affairs, Prof. Faith Nguru has urged universities to institute policies and a framework to support members of society living with disabilities.

Prof. Nguru made the remarks on December 5, 2022 while opening the Autism Spectrum workshop hosted by the Daystar Institute of Disability Studies (DIDS).

The blended workshop was moderated from Daystar University DAC Auditorium with limited number of in-person participants, while the rest followed the workshop via Zoom.

Prof. Nguru said universities had a role to play in providing knowledge and skills for identification, care and support of people living with autism.

The Founder & Coordinator of Daystar Institute of Disability Studies Dr. Scolastica Kariuki-Githinji called for inclusiveness of autistic children learning in regular schools.

“Let’s begin having inclusive classrooms because that’s where children with disability will find rescue.  Give autistic children choices: Don’t push them to complete all tasks. Allow them to choose working alone or in groups, and which friends to work with,” she  pleaded with participants.

Speaking on the patterns of autism, Child Psychologist at the Kenyatta National Hospital, Dr. Josephine Omondi revealed that 70% of autistic children usually get speech but 30% will never develop speech, while teenagers get extra-ordinary interests, and have excessive anxiety.

On assessment of autism, Clinical Psychologist, Research, Assessment, and Intervention of Neural-developmental Disorder, Dr. Niceta Ireri said children with autism are usually identified by around 14 months, but if a mother is keen, she will have noticed it earlier.

“You must be aware of the behaviour of the child, environment, and the stimulus of a child with autism. Take time and understand the deficit of social skills for children with autism and be careful not to use negative reinforcement on them,” she advised, adding that every autistic child is unique.

The workshop organized by DIDS Coordinator Dr. Scolastica Kariuki-Githinji and was attended by psychologists, clinicians, health and education experts, teachers, students, and parents of children living with autism disorder.

DIDS areas of Focus are Education & Training, Research, Early Assessment & Intervention, Community Outreach & Advocacy and Entrepreneur Programs.