Algerian Public Health Expands Autism Services with New Centers
Algeria has initiated a significant public health advancement by opening its first specialized centers dedicated to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This effort, alongside the establishment of a National Autism Center announced in January, marks a crucial step towards providing qualitative care, treatment, and social integration for this sensitive segment of society. These facilities are designed to address the needs of over 450,000 individuals with ASD in Algeria, a figure that underscores the scale of the national commitment.
The National Autism Center is tasked with a pivotal role in organizing and advancing national policies related to autism. Its responsibilities include developing specialized programs and curricula for early diagnosis, detection, rehabilitation, and treatment. Furthermore, the Ministry of Solidarity, Family, and Women's Issues has already conducted over 25 training courses since February to enhance the capabilities of professionals involved in autism care. An educational program, grounded in scientific standards and tailored to various types and degrees of ASD, has also been prepared to ensure specialized support appropriate for each child's needs.
Beyond direct care centers, the Algerian education sector has adopted supportive policies to integrate children with ASD into the regular educational system. This includes opening special classes in public schools for those with moderate ASD, in collaboration with the Ministry of National Solidarity and civil society associations, and integrating children with mild ASD into standard classrooms. Exceptional measures have been implemented to allow students with special needs, including those with ASD, to progress through primary, middle, and secondary education based solely on continuous assessment, ensuring medical support and the assistance of school life facilitators during exams. Concurrently, the Ministry of Health has launched a dedicated website to provide information and guidance to individuals with ASD and their families, while also raising public health awareness in this vital area.
