International Balkan University (IBU) on Tuesday marked World Autism Awareness Day, which is celebrated internationally on April 2 following its adoption by the UN in 2007.
On this day, the Counselling and Psychological Services (CAPS) that functions in the scope of IBU, under the meticulous preparation of our 2nd and 3rd-year students from Psychology Department, organized series of events dedicated to raising awareness, understanding and acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum, in which attended the rector of IBU, Prof. Dr. Lütfi Sunar, professors and students.
In this event, the attendees expressed their thoughts and feeling about the autism awareness. Also, rector Sunar also was informed about this day and the autism centers in North Macedonia.
The Autism Awareness Day campus project was a success, the events were successfully completed under the direction of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mira Polazarevska, with the participation of rector Prof. Dr. Lütfi Sunar and students. Together, they worked to promote understanding, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive environment for individuals with autism.
Let us remember that every step taken in awareness leads our community to become more inclusive and understanding.
Also, another event titled "Autism Awareness Day: How to Welcome Autistic Patients in a Dental Clinic" was organized by Medical Dental Club. The event featured two speakers, Mustafa Sevim and Serra Okurer.
Mustafa Sevim focused on discussing the symptoms and recognition of autistic patients, while Serra Okurer provided insights into creating a welcoming environment and appropriate treatment in a dental clinic.
The audience consisted of students from various faculties at IBU. It was an informative and enlightening event that aimed to raise awareness about autism and promote inclusive dental care.
Additionally, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mira Polazarevska concluded the event with a heartfelt message and speech emphasizing the significance of raising awareness about autism and advocating for the right to treatment for individuals with autism. Her words resonated with the audience, inspiring a deeper understanding and commitment to inclusive healthcare practices. It was a truly impactful event that highlighted the importance of supporting and accommodating autistic patients in dental clinics.
The Medical Dental Club's president, along with the board members, took the initiative to visit the rector's office and personally hand over a heartfelt thank you letter. This gesture was a sincere expression of gratitude for the rector's unwavering support towards the club's activities.
About World Autism Awareness Day Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a group of neurodevelopmental disorders of variable severity characterized by repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior and difficulties with social communication and interaction.
World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day annually on April 2, encouraging Member States of the United Nations (UN) to take measures to raise awareness about autistic individuals throughout the world.
It was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution passed in council on November 1, 2007, and adopted on December 18, 2007.