14-05-2025
20 artworks by children with autism spectrum disorder
MUSCAT: In celebration of World Autism Awareness Day, the Ministry of Social Development, represented by the National Autism Centre in collaboration with the Royal Opera House Muscat, inaugurated the Second Autism Spectrum Disorder Art Exhibition, titled 'Citizenship: Identity and Belonging.'
The event was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Dr Kamil bin Fahd bin Mahmood al Said, Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers; and in the presence of Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, along with several high-ranking officials and members of the State Council.
The exhibition aims to showcase the talents and creativity of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), highlighting their abilities particularly in the creative arts — as a means of expression that helps them communicate, interact socially, stimulate creative thinking, build self-confidence and promote social inclusion.
The exhibition features 20 unique artworks created by children with ASD, along with a collection of artistic products. This year's works reflect themes of national identity and citizenship, aiming to foster a sense of belonging and community responsibility while raising public awareness of the individual's role in nation-building. It also highlights the role of culture and art in strengthening social cohesion and delivering meaningful messages through a visual language accessible to all segments of society.
The Second Autism Spectrum Disorder Art Exhibition, titled 'Citizenship: Identity and Belonging' was opened on Tuesday evening.
The event also featured the official launch of the children's story 'A Spectrum of Light', the second in a series inspired by the real-life experiences of individuals with ASD. The book, authored by Fawzia bint Ali al Fahdiyah and illustrated by Haneen al Lawati, is supported by Omantel. The story tells the inspiring journey of a child with ASD and showcases the efforts of the National Autism Centre in supporting and developing the child's skills. The book aims to promote awareness, acceptance and empathy among children towards their peers with ASD.
Additionally, an agreement was signed during the ceremony with the Mohammed al Barwani Foundation for Charitable Works to support the establishment of a Hydroponic Agricultural Reserve, designed to provide vocational training for individuals with ASD. The initiative seeks to offer a supportive learning environment where participants can acquire hydroponic farming skills, enhance their social integration and raise public awareness about the importance of including individuals with ASD in community and developmental activities.
The National Autism Centre continues to provide comprehensive rehabilitation programmes; and specialised educational and psychological services aimed at developing the skills of children with ASD and enhancing their integration into society. The centre also strives to organise exhibitions and events that showcase the talents of these children, encouraging interaction with their families and the wider community to build a supportive and inclusive environment that recognises their needs and celebrates their abilities.
