By Amadou Manjang
The Gambia Autism Support and Advocacy Network (GASAN) on Saturday conducted its first national training of trainers on autism, bringing together educators, journalists, social workers, and parents.
The training, held under the theme “Understanding the Autism Spectrum: Beyond the Basics,” aimed to raise awareness and improve understanding of autism in The Gambia.
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and behaves. It typically appears in early childhood and varies widely in severity. Early intervention, therapy, and supportive services can significantly improve outcomes.
Abdou Majid Jallow, a representative of GASAN, said the objective of the training was to increase public knowledge about autism and promote inclusive support for people on the spectrum.
“There are many people in this country with autism,” Jallow said. “This training is intended to help communities understand their needs.”
Participants included parents of children with autism who shared personal experiences. Halimatou Jawneh, a mother of an autistic child, highlighted the absence of autism clinics or therapy centres in the country. She called for the establishment of diagnostic and treatment facilities and urged stakeholders to collaborate on expanding autism services.
Oumie S. Ceesay, another parent, discussed techniques used in raising autistic children and emphasised the need for patience, structure, and community support.
Isatou Keita, a board member of GASAN, said the training helped participants gain practical knowledge about autism. She encouraged attendees to share what they learned to promote greater understanding across society.
Participants also raised concerns about the lack of support systems for autistic individuals in The Gambia, citing social stigma, limited access to services, and the urgent need for early diagnosis and therapy.
