Algeria Initiates National Early Autism Screening Campaign in Schools

Algeria is set to launch a national early autism screening campaign across all educational institutions, effective from the 2026-2027 social and school year. This significant initiative, ordered by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb during a strategic meeting on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, aims to bolster school support for children with special needs, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The decision underscores the government's commitment to social inclusion and the protection of vulnerable categories, aligning with directives from the President of the Republic.

The comprehensive campaign targets early identification of children exhibiting behavioral or cognitive developmental disorders within the initial school cycles. Beyond screening, the Prime Minister has mandated an immediate assessment of material and human resources required to expedite the establishment of new special classes across primary, middle, and secondary education levels. These measures are designed to ensure suitable schooling conditions and enhance care mechanisms for children with special needs within the educational system.

This institutional push addresses previous challenges in early diagnosis and integration pathways for autism care in Algeria. By ensuring a continuous and secure educational journey for children with ASD, the initiative seeks to prevent school dropout and provide relief to thousands of families. These strategic orientations are part of a broader National Plan dedicated to autism, developed and overseen by a multisectoral committee comprising representatives from the Ministries of Health, National Education, National Solidarity, and Professional Training, reinforcing a holistic approach to care.