IN observance of World Autism Awareness Day yesterday, First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar and her Foundation held its customary blue candlelight vigil at the Children’s Monument in the National Park to heighten awareness among persons and organisations of the “Autism Advantage”.

She said that employers may be missing out on the special abilities that austistic persons have. These may include a heightened ability in pattern recognition, logical reasoning and a greater attention to detail.
“We have to support persons with autism; we have to support their families, their teachers, and their schools. Let us create a chorus of voices calling for greater support, greater resources and greater understanding for the brave people who face the challenge of autism”, the First Lady further noted.
This year, the United Nations is observing autism awareness under the theme, Employment: The Autism Advantage. According to Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki- Moon, the unemployment rate of adults with autism is above 80%. The Secretary General noted that one way to reduce that unemployment rate would be to invest in appropriate vocational training that would allow autistic persons to apply their special skills and realize their full potential.
Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran observed that within Guyana significant efforts have been made to invest in vocational education. Over the years the establishment of vocational educational training centres across the country in Corriverton, New Amsterdam, Linden, Anna Regina, Leonora, Mahaicony and Georgetown has helped to reduce the stigma attached to autism and provide opportunities to those suffering from the disorder.