Like the rest of the world, the 17th World Autism Awareness Day will also be observed in Bangladesh today.

Like other countries in the world, the day is being observed in Bangladesh to create social awareness about autism and establish their rights. Various programs have been undertaken in this regard.

On the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, President M. Sahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave separate speeches. The theme of this year's event is "Awareness-Acceptance-Evaluation: Journey from mere survival to prosperity".

On the occasion of the day, the Ministry of Social Welfare has organized various events at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center in the capital. Social Welfare Minister and Awami League Joint General Secretary Dr. Deepu Moni will be present as the chief guest at the event.

This year, the day will be celebrated nationwide through colorful programs. Special supplements will be published in daily newspapers on the day.

To honor individuals with autism and to raise awareness about autism, the Ministry of Social Welfare and its subordinate departments, various organizations, and important government buildings will be illuminated in blue lights. In addition, awareness about autism is being created through road branding, special memorabilia, and leaflet distribution.

Since the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in April 2007 to observe April 2nd as "World Autism Awareness Day" to raise awareness and help improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by autism, the day has been observed every year.

Autism was once considered a neglected public health issue. There were groundbreaking initiatives in society about this. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's daughter and school psychologist Sayma Wazed Putul's relentless efforts have created awareness about autism at the national and international levels. She started working on this issue in the country in 2007. For her immense contribution to this neglected public health issue, she has received approval from the World Health Organization. Currently, Sayma Wazed is serving as the Regional Director for Southeast Asia of the World Health Organization.