Advancing Neurodiversity in Nepal: Celebrating World Autism Day 2025

Today is world autism day the slogan of which is “World Autism Awareness Day – Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting around 1 in 100 children. The disorder affects how a person communicates, interacts with others, and experiences the world. This year’s theme includes Autism within the SDG Goals and highlights the importance of inclusivity and ensuring that every individual, regardless of neurodiversity, is empowered to achieve their fullest potential.

In Nepal, a developing nation, the journey toward raising awareness and supporting individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been a significant challenge over the past decade. With cultural taboos, and stigma and most importantly a lack of awareness has led to the belief that “not all children are same” “some speak late”, or even shunning away on the suggestion of Autism with a denial “it’s not it”. Thanks to collaborative efforts by private health centers including associations run by family members of children suffering from Autism, such as Autism Care Nepal Society and others, Ministry of Health, and NGOs and INGOs such as WHO, UNICEF, CMC Nepal, CMCS Nepal, CPH Nepal, Psychology Nepal, Special School For Disabled and Rehabilitation Center(SSDRC) and others have made significant progress in raising the level of awareness, training human resources and increasing reach and providing specialized therapies, counseling, and other intervention for children with autism and their family members. With these efforts of advocacy, awareness and support the message and service has been able to penetrate the even into rural corners of Nepal.

Progress in Diagnosis and Management

Ten years ago, autism awareness and support were minimal in Nepal. However, with the establishment of dedicated autism centers and growing advocacy, early diagnosis and effective management of cases and management have improved dramatically. All sectors have become more focused on raising awareness, equipping human resources with trainings and providing exposure to specialized therapies, counseling, and resources for children with autism and their families.

Parents and caretakers, who once struggled in isolation, now have access to support networks that offer guidance and community. The rise of NGOs and INGOs working in this field have amplified the visibility of autism-related issues, creating a ripple effect of awareness across schools, workplaces, and communities.

Education for children with autism in Nepal has significantly improved, offering inclusive programs and trained educators. Teacher training programs by ACNS, vocational training by SSDRC, and PGDE in Inclusive and Special Needs Education (ISNE) by Kathmandu University have introduced autism-friendly teaching methods, though mainstream schools still lack resources.

Parents and caretakers, who once struggled in isolation, now have access to support networks that offer guidance and community. The rise of NGOs and INGOs working in this field has amplified the visibility of autism-related issues, creating a ripple effect of awareness across schools, workplaces, and communities.

With these efforts, Government of Nepal has now recognized autism within its disability rights framework, leading to greater advocacy for inclusion in education, healthcare, and employment.

Advocacy and Rights

Organizations in Nepal are actively working to align with global goals by promoting the rights and inclusion of individuals with autism. Programs aimed at education, employment, and independent living have begun to take shape. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism but also contribute to the broader goal of advancing neurodiversity as a critical component of the SDGs.

Despite this progress, financial constraints remain a significant barrier, limiting access to essential services such as therapies and specialized education for many families. The high costs of treatment and the lack of sufficient government funding make it difficult for low-income and rural families to afford necessary services. To address these challenges, there is a pressing need for increased government subsidies and public sector support to ensure that autism services are accessible to all, particularly those from marginalized and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Building a Supportive Society

As we join hands with thousands of individuals and families affected by autism, let us remember that building a truly inclusive society requires collective effort. Advocacy for inclusive education policies, accessible healthcare, and public awareness campaigns remains vital. Together, we can challenge stigma, embrace neurodiversity, and ensure that no one is left behind.

On this World Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to advancing the rights and dignity of every individual, recognizing that neurodiversity enriches our society in countless ways.

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