Monday, June 29, 2015

GTBank’s 2015 Orange Ribbon Initiative .. 5th Annual Autism Program




Lagos Nigeria – June, 2015.

Foremost African financial institution; Guaranty Trust Bank plc is set to hold the 5th edition of its Annual Autism programme. This year’s programme will start with a 2-day conference at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, on the 30th of June and 1st of July, 2015; followed by a 7-day child assessment clinic from the 2nd – 10th July, 2015 as well as a Radio Talk Series - Let’s talk Autism.
The initiative, which is in its 5th consecutive year, is an advocacy program designed to create awareness and provide support for children with developmental disabilities, most especially the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism Spectrum Disorder affects 1 in every 150 children around the world and is a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with others.
Recognising the challenge posed by Autism in the educational development of children, GTBank has over the years partnered with various stakeholders and practitioners, including The University of Lagos - College of Medicine, Blazing Trails International, Ministries of Health and Women Affairs to increase awareness about Autism in Nigeria. The 2015 programme assumes a rather broader spectrum in expanding existing research on ASD through its theme “Bridging Gaps and Transforming lives”. The idea behind this year’s theme, encompasses a broad array of concepts which goes beyond creating awareness for ASD to include increasing social justice education, helping individuals with special needs participate in the political process and providing access to technology for people affected with ASD. Also, the seminar will feature other initiatives such as behavioural training, teaching of non-verbal children functional communication and management of autism disorder.

Commenting on the 5th edition of the Annual Autism Seminar, Mr. Segun Agbaje, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank plc stated that “we believe that children, irrespective of developmental disorders can rise to the highest levels in the pursuit of their dreams when given a chance to cultivate their innate skills and maximize their potentials.” He further stated that society on the other hand has a role to play in providing an atmosphere for children living with ASD to thrive. As a Bank, we will continue to provide support for parents, teachers and care givers of children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder through our annual Autism program.
The conference, which is free to attend, will feature different classes focusing on diverse areas of the management of Autism Spectrum Disorders. International Professionals such as Nutritionists, Psychologists, Educationists and Medical Practitioners will facilitate the various sessions during the 2-day seminar as well as the 7-days child assessment services. Members of the public can attend the seminar by registering at www.gtbank/autism.
Guaranty Trust Bank plc is one of the few Nigerian financial institutions that have maintained a defined Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy since its inception in 1990. The Bank actively supports numerous programmes across Africa that positively affect Infant and Maternal Healthcare, Education, the Art, Community Development and the Environment.

Communication & External Affairs
Tel: 234-1-2715227


TalkVilla-Radio

No comments:

Post a Comment