Vice President Witbooi Urges Inclusion of Autistic Youth in Namibia

Namibian Vice President Lucia Witbooi has emphasized the need for greater inclusion of autistic young people in education, employment, and society. Speaking at the 6th World Autism Organisation Congress in Windhoek, Witbooi stated that autism should not limit the ambitions of young people. She called for communities where autistic children can access quality education without discrimination.

Witbooi stressed that Namibia must move away from stigma and discrimination towards recognizing the abilities and potential of autistic persons. She said autism has been viewed through limitations and stereotypes, contributing to stigma, discrimination, and social isolation. Witbooi emphasized that autism must never diminish an individual's worth, dignity, or potential.

The Vice President highlighted the country's commitment to disability inclusion, which must be reflected through inclusive education, accessible healthcare, early identification and intervention, specialized support services, and equitable employment opportunities. Witbooi also stressed that autistic persons must be involved in decisions affecting their lives.

World Autism Organisation president and Autism Association of Namibia founder Petra Dillmann also called for autistic people to have a stronger voice in decisions affecting them. Dillmann said it is time to empower the younger generation and give the autistic community a platform to advocate and speak for themselves.

Namibia has limited national data on autism, with the 2011 Population and Housing Census recording 1,146 people with autism among 98,413 people identified as having disabilities. The ministry of education's 2023 Education Management Information System recorded 224 learners with autism spectrum disorder in schools.

The 6th World Autism Organisation Congress in Windhoek included discussions on the educational experiences of young autistic adults, communication between autistic children and teachers, and independent living for young adults. Witbooi said the work of changing perceptions about autism should continue beyond the congress and be reflected in government policies and everyday treatment of autistic persons.

Witbooi concluded that the true measure of an inclusive society is not how well it accommodates those who require the least support, but how effectively it recognizes the dignity, protects the rights, and creates opportunities for every individual, particularly those whose needs are often overlooked. The congress aimed to transform the narrative about autism in Namibia and promote inclusivity.

Key points

• Autistic persons must be at the center of decisions affecting their lives.
• Namibia must move away from stigma and discrimination towards recognizing the abilities and potential of autistic persons.
• The country must provide inclusive education, accessible healthcare, and equitable employment opportunities for autistic persons.