Damascus, April 5 (SANA) – Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Marwan al-Halabi stressed Sunday that integrating people with autism spectrum disorder into education is both a humanitarian and educational responsibility.
Marking World Autism Awareness Day, al-Halabi said individuals on the autism spectrum should not be viewed merely as cases highlighted on specific occasions, but as people with promising abilities and potential that deserve support and recognition within fair and compassionate educational systems.
“The progress of nations is measured by their ability to view all citizens with dignity rather than difference,” al-Halabi said, adding that awareness must be treated as a right, inclusion as a policy, and fairness as a guiding principle.
He noted that meaningful education is achieved when institutions open their doors to everyone and when learning spaces evolve from places of passive instruction into environments that foster recognition, empowerment and participation.
Al-Halabi emphasized that sustainable progress requires inclusive institutions that respect human dignity and ensure equal opportunities in education.
World Autism Awareness Day is observed annually on April 2 following its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 to promote awareness of autism spectrum disorder and support the rights of people living with the condition. This year’s theme highlights the value of every life and the importance of inclusion in building a more equitable future.
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