21 000 autistic kids have no access to help in Limpopo
The autism problem in Limpopo is compounded by myriad of challenges, including lack of knowledge, financial backing and professionals with the requisite skills to deal with autism.
THE old maxim that says “it takes a village to raise a child” seems out of place in view of the plight of children suffering from autism.
The autism problem in Limpopo is compounded by myriad of challenges, including lack of knowledge, financial backing and professionals with the requisite skills to deal with autism.
These facts were recently revealed by the deputy chairperson of Autism Limpopo (ALIM), Betty Sebelebele.
She confirmed that incidences of autism have dramatically increased in the province.
“Since we established this organisation, we have discovered an increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorders and the financial challenges to support the individuals we serve. Due to lack of funding, we are also unable to build centres to cater for autistic children,” she told CV.
“Another critical challenge is the lack of skills among medical practitioners and primary healthcare givers to deal with autism. Although there are people tasked with early childhood development, doctors and social workers are often not sufficiently trained to deal with autistic patients.”
According to Sebelebele, experts believe that autism presents itself during the first three years of a person’s life, a condition that results from a neurological disorder that has an effect on normal brain function, affecting development of the person’s communication and social interaction skills.
According to Polokwane-based psychiatrist, Matlala Mabeba, global figures confirm that one in 110 children develop autism before the age of three.
“Statistically there are close to 21 000 children with autism living in Limpopo, yet it appears that only about 117 of them are enrolled in any form of education. This is an appalling and devastating situation that needs to be addressed urgently,” said Mabeba.
Sebelebele, a teacher by profession who also has an autistic son, says most autistic children find it difficult to learn in mainstream and special schools.
“The challenge is that teachers at these schools are not specifically trained to deal with autism. We are in discussion with provincial department of education to establish a centre for these children. P
“Plans are in the pipeline to conduct workshops to equip doctors, early childhood development staffers and social workers in order to treat autistic patients adequately,” said Sebelebele.
