Experts gathered at the Annual GTCO Autism Conference in Lagos to address the challenges faced by individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and advocate for effective policies and legislation to boost job opportunities for them.
Lanre Duyile, President of Behaviourprise Consulting Incorporation, based in Toronto, Canada, suggested implementing legislation that offers tax breaks to organizations providing jobs for individuals on the autism spectrum. He emphasized that such incentives would encourage more companies to create opportunities for persons with ASD.
“ASD is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain, leading to social communication problems and restricted behaviors,” explained Duyile during his presentation at the event themed “Empowering Voices for Autism.”
One of the major obstacles faced by individuals with ASD is the limited job opportunities available to them, despite their right to inclusive lifestyles. Duyile urged that this group should not be excluded from the job market and proposed legislative support to encourage companies to be more inclusive.
“Whenever autistic individuals approach graduation, they should be exposed to various vocational skills, enabling them to contribute to their communities with skill-oriented jobs,” Duyile added, highlighting the significance of vocational training for individuals with ASD.
Mr. Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company PLC, stressed the importance of embracing diversity within the autism spectrum and promoting acceptance of individuals with autism. He emphasized that inclusivity fuels growth and success, making it essential for society to empower those with autism.
Tomi Agboola, a speech and language therapist based in London, emphasized that the program’s aim is to give a voice to individuals with autism. She stressed the importance of providing support structures and techniques to help them thrive and reach their fullest potential in various aspects of human development.
The theme of the conference, “Empowering Voices for Autism,” hopes to expand the frontiers of autism management and inspire confidence in individuals with autism to excel in art, business, leadership, innovation, and other areas of life. Advocates believe that by implementing effective policies and legislation, more job opportunities can be created to empower and support individuals with ASD.