First government-run autism center in Semel district

DUHOK — Authorities in Duhok’s Semel district on Monday inaugurated the area’s first government-run autism center, marking a milestone in public services for children with developmental disabilities. The facility has the capacity to serve up to 25 children, according to its director.

“For the first time, a public autism center has opened in the Semel district,” said Heliz Haji, who leads the center.

The facility is open to children between the ages of 5 and 11 and operates five days a week, closing on Fridays and Saturdays. It employs 12 specialized instructors who provide care and training, with each child undergoing regular sessions and weekly evaluations.

“We accept children diagnosed with autism based on medical committee reports,” Haji said. “Our staff is trained and follows up closely on each child’s case.”

Autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition often identified in early childhood. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction and communication, along with restricted or repetitive patterns of behavior.

According to the Directorate of Social Welfare, around 270 children have been diagnosed with autism in Semel district.

A report issued in April by the Kurdistan Autism Society noted a rising number of autism diagnoses across the region. In 2023 alone, 327 new cases were recorded, raising the total to 3,667. Erbil remains the governorate with the highest number of cases.