The Liztino Centre for Children with Special Needs, championed by autistic advocate Young Phil Bertino, has held an Autism Awareness Event at the St. Peter’s Senior High School, as part of activities ahead of this year’s World Autism Day, observed annually on April 2.
The programme, which marked the sixth edition of the Autism Awareness Month celebration, aimed at promoting acceptance, support, and access to quality education for children with special needs.
A statement issued in Accra said the occasion also coincided with Young Phil Bertino’s 19th birthday, using his life story to inspire others.
It said despite being autistic, he had distinguished himself as Africa’s only known autistic cyclist and is also a pianist, chef, swimmer, and tennis player.
Mrs Angel Bertino, the Chief Executive Officer of the Liztino Centre called on the government to prioritise the implementation of inclusive education policies in Ghana.
She emphasised the need for the deployment of adequately trained and professional teachers to support children with special needs effectively.
“There are many qualified teachers in the country, but they are often assigned to roles where their skills are underutilised. Teachers must be posted to areas where they can make meaningful impact,” she said.
Mrs Bertino encouraged students to support their peers with special needs to help them feel comfortable and fully participate in learning.
She educated participants on autism, stressing that the condition was not contagious and that interacting with autistic persons posed no risk.
“We are all one people and as we celebrate World Autism Day globally, it is a call for everyone to get involved and support people with special needs,” she added.
She urged teachers to lead by example by demonstrating care and inclusion to encourage students to do the same.
Master Young Phil Bertino expressed gratitude to the school for accepting him and appealed to parents to show greater love and support for their autistic children.
He noted that with the right support, children with autism could become independent, pursue education, gain employment, and contribute meaningfully to society.
He also entertained the audience with piano renditions of Ghanaian songs, including the national anthem and other patriotic tunes.
Mrs Gifty Otoo, a member of the School’s Management, commended the organisers for the programme, describing it as educational and inspiring.
“It is inspiring to meet Young Phil and witness his abilities. It serves as motivation for both teachers and students,” she said.
She said the school had made efforts to support students with special needs, many of whom had been successfully integrated and were performing well.
Mrs Otoo urged continued inclusiveness to ensure that children with special needs felt comfortable and were able to learn effectively.
Source: GNA
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