GTBank Rallies Experts to Tackle Autism Disorder

Guaranty Trust Bank plc has began preparations and announced the theme for the Bank’s 2014 Autism Awareness program. The initiative themed “On the road to future inclusion” will take place from March 22nd to April 2nd, 2014.

This will be the 4th edition of the programme which the Bank introduced in 2010 to create awareness and advocate for the requirements of persons living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), a neurological condition that presently affects 1 in every 88 children worldwide according to World research statistics.

Autism Spectrum Disorder as with other developmental challenges arises from insufficient development of a child’s physical, emotional or intellectual capacity. This Disorder, which is largely misunderstood by society makes it difficult for affected children to cope with the everyday demands of their environment and leads to varying stages of social stigmatization.

According to Mr. Segun Agbaje; Managing Director/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank plc, the Institution commenced its Autism Advocacy programme to ensure societal awareness and knowledge about the disorder, highlight the plight and requirements of person’s living with Autism, argue for the establishment of comprehensive and inclusive schools for affected children as well as integrated centers for adults, gather support and lobby for legislation that protects the rights of people living with developmental disabilities, encourage government and private organizations to fund research in Autism and clear up societal myths concerning Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The highlight of GTBank’s 2014 Autism programme will be the Awareness Seminar holding on the 31st  of March and 1st of April 2014 at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos. The seminar, which will be facilitated by International and local nutritionists, psychologists, educationists and medical practitioners will feature sessions on managing people with varying levels of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Members of the public can attend the seminar for free by registering at www.gtbank.com/autism.

Other activities that will constitute the awareness week include autism talk shows on major radio stations, a fun day for children living with Autism and awareness walks within Lagos metropolis.

Guaranty Trust Bank plc is one of the few Nigerian financial institutions that have maintained a defined Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy since its inception in 1990. The Bank actively supports numerous programmes across Africa that positively affect Infant and Maternal Healthcare, Education, the Art, Community Development and the Environment. {fcomments}