Autism Awareness Community Project
The Faculty of Pharmacy at Tishk International University (TIU) has been concerned with the Autism Awareness Community Project for the past six years (including this academic year). On April 3rd, 2024, a ceremony was organized to commemorate World Autism Awareness Day. This event was a vital part of their ongoing Autism Care and Awareness Community Service Project, aimed at spreading understanding and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Under the leadership of the Dean of Students Representative of the Faculty of Pharmacy, the ceremony was a resounding success.
At the onset of the academic year, a dedicated committee is formed to oversee the Autism Community Service Project. The committee members, comprising faculty members, staff, and enthusiastic students, come together with a shared vision of making a positive impact in the lives of individuals affected by autism. Early in the academic year, a strategic planning meeting is convened to brainstorm ideas, set goals, and chart out the roadmap for the project’s activities and events.
One significant event organized as part of this initiative was the food fundraising day held on November 29th, 2023. This event served as a platform for students, faculty members, and the broader community to come together in support of autism awareness and advocacy. The collective efforts of the faculty, students, and advisors yielded impressive results, with the Faculty of Pharmacy alone managing to raise approximately 1,500,000 Iraqi Dinars (IQD) through the food fundraising day.
Following, on 28th march, 2023, the Dean of Students at the Faculty of Pharmacy and a group of faculty staff visited the Autism Centre in Erbil to check the status of the trained and rehabilitated children and assess their needs.
On March 31st , 2024 , a group of volunteer students with their class advisors, went shopping to purchase stationery items for the autistic children. In addition to gathering supplies for the children, the volunteers took time to select thoughtful gifts for the teachers of the autistic center as a token of appreciation for their dedication and hard work. These gifts were chosen with care to convey gratitude and recognition for the vital role the teachers play in the lives of the children and their families. The students and their class advisors packed the bags with the items and prepared sweets for the ceremony.
The student volunteers, accompanied by their dedicated class advisors, continued their compassionate journey by visiting an autism center in Erbil to distribute the carefully selected gifts. The event also featured a range of activities planned by the volunteers to actively engage both the autistic children and their families. These activities encompassed elements such as face painting, hand printing, and other interactive engagements, providing avenues for the children to creatively express themselves and have a delightful time.
The ceremony was not only a platform for raising awareness but also a testament to the university’s commitment to community service. Volunteers from different grades enthusiastically participated, showcasing the spirit of unity and compassion that defines Tishk International University. Their contributions added depth and diversity to the event, creating a memorable experience for everyone involved.
This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including the volunteers’ efforts to purchase stationery items for autistic children and support their education align with ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. It also aligns with good health and well-being, by raising awareness and providing support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The project aims to reduce inequalities by promoting understanding and acceptance of individuals with ASD and providing them with necessary resources and support.
