SWID marks Down syndrome, autism awareness days
SWID Bangladesh marked the 13th National and 21st World Down Syndrome Day, alongside the 19th World Autism Awareness Day 2026, with a programme on Thursday, underscoring the imperative of social inclusion and rights protection for individuals with disabilities.
Jointly organised by SWID Vocational Training School and SWID Laboratory Model School, with overarching support from SWID Bangladesh, the event drew significant participation from all stakeholders.
The programme commenced at 11am, attended by senior leaders of SWID Bangladesh. Speakers emphasised the necessity of safeguarding the rights of children with disabilities and facilitating their integration into mainstream society.
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Distinguished attendees included SWID Bangladesh Mentor Jawherul Islam Mamun, Secretary General Md Mahbubul Munir, Welfare and Rehabilitation Sub-Committee Member Secretary Abdul Mannan Manu, and National Executive Committee members Dipankar Adhikari and Shah Alam Sarkar Mintu.
Speakers at the programme included:
Md Mahbubul Munir, Secretary General of SWID Bangladesh, and parent of two individuals with autism and Down syndrome;
Shamsul Alam, former Additional Secretary to the Government and parent of a child with autism;
Mohammad Nurul Islam, Principal, SWID Special Education Teachers Training College;
Masuda Khanom Kona, Head Teacher, SWID Vocational Training School; and
Shimmy Samad, Head Teacher, SWID Laboratory Model School.
The Principal and lecturers of SWID Special Education Teachers Training College, as well as the head teachers, faculty members, and staff from both schools, attended to support and encourage students.
A significant number of parents accompanied the students, expressing appreciation for these awareness initiatives. Speakers called for compassion towards individuals with autism and Down syndrome, and underscored the importance of empowering them through vocational education.
For nearly half a century, SWID Bangladesh has advanced the welfare of persons with disabilities; Thursday's programme is a testament to these enduring efforts.
Md Iqbal Hossain Himel, Assistant Director of SWID Bangladesh, moderated the programme.
