As part of its ongoing humanitarian mission and commitment to supporting the most vulnerable groups in society, the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine continues to provide advanced therapeutic and rehabilitative services for children with autism through Al-Thaqalayn Academy for Autism and Developmental Disorders in Basra. The academy operates under the Shrine’s Health and Medical Education Authority.
The academy’s director, Dr. Zamil Al-Arabi, stated that this initiative reflects the Shrine’s priority to support families in need by offering specialized care for children with autism, in line with international standards. He explained that the establishment of the academy came in response to the growing need in Basra, where autism cases have increased amid a lack of specialized centers capable of delivering comprehensive treatment and rehabilitation.
Since its opening more than a year and a half ago, the academy has accommodated 200 children daily, operating in both morning and evening shifts to reduce waiting times and better serve families. The staff includes consultant physicians, specialized therapists, trainers, and qualified administrative personnel.
Dr. Al-Arabi noted that the five-story facility is equipped to provide a wide range of therapeutic services, including sensory integration therapy, physical and motor therapy, speech and language therapy, and behavioral rehabilitation programs. The academy follows international standards in its treatment protocols and employs specialists with certified qualifications in autism care.
He also highlighted that the academy has achieved promising results, graduating three groups of children, some of whom have successfully returned to regular schools after completing their rehabilitation programs. This reflects the effectiveness of the academy’s methodological approach.
The increasing number of autism cases, along with the financial challenges faced by families and their need to travel abroad for treatment, were among the key reasons behind the Shrine’s decision to establish this center. The main objective is to provide treatment within Iraq and ease the burden on families, especially those with limited income.
This project reaffirms the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine’s commitment to building a holistic humanitarian support system that goes beyond medical treatment to include psychological and social care. It seeks to ensure a more hopeful future for children with autism while enhancing Iraq’s role in delivering specialized services in line with global standards.
Attachments
اترك تعليق