The government's goal is to facilitate more inclusive education, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

The vice president made the statement at the launching ceremony of the handbook for guiding and educating children on the autism spectrum by the Autism Association of the Maldives, on Monday morning. Education Minister Dr. Aishath Ali and other relevant parties joined the VP at the ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, Naseem stressed on the significance President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih places on education, stressing that the government's goal “is to facilitate more inclusive education”.

Noting that the recently introduced nationwide scholarship opportunities in speech therapy and occupational therapy is part of the work done in this regard, the VP urged those interested to take advantage of these opportunities and to dedicate time to helping bridge the educational gap for youngsters who require supplementary guidance and support.

While work is underway to establish a child development centre in Hulhumalé Hospital, the VP said that the centre’s goal is to offer critical services and treatment programmes for children in need.

Further speaking regarding the handbook launched at the event, Vice President Naseem said the book will prove especially useful for parents raising children who are on the autism spectrum. He also commended the Autism Association of the Maldives for their noteworthy work in assembling the book, and reiterated the government's commitment to enabling inclusive and unbiased education for all children on all inhabited islands across the country.

The Autism Association's handbook was created based on observations and data collected from autistic children seeking the support of the association. The main goal of the handbook is to acquaint and raise awareness among educators, such as parents and teachers, on how best to guide and educate children on the autism spectrum.

The book includes information on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in Dhivehi, as well as tips on therapeutic strategies and soothing processes. The book further includes behavioural modification tactics and assistance manoeuvres in monitoring and skills development for autistic children.

The handbook is now available online, for free.

Following launching ceremony, the VP toured the Autism Centre grounds and visited the therapy classes in session there.