AWF celebrates 20 years with cultural programme

Autism Welfare Foundation (AWF) is a non-government, non-profit, voluntary specialised welfare organisation that has been working for the education, training, and development of autistic children and adolescents since 2004.

AWF provides specialised and individualised programmes that support its mission in several approaches. This includes enhancing community awareness and outreach, offering early screening and intervention to young children, providing parent and professional information and training, and delivering support to guardians and extended family members. At present, AWF's regular activities are tailored to improve the lives of children with ASD as well as their families from both an educational and medical standpoint. Currently, the organisation has 70 skilled special education teachers, specialised therapists, and more than 20 nurses and staff members for its 155 students in two shifts.

Children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can express their talents and skills to other members of society if they receive proper care and training. AWF's vision is to create an inclusive environment where people with ASD can lead thriving and fulfilling lives and engage in all activities as fully participating members of society. Along with regular educational and therapy programmes, training is also provided to students in the cultural and physical education sector. Since 2006, AWF has been consistently organising various cultural events where multiple performances are conducted solely by their students.

Adhering to the organisation's mission statement, a vibrant cultural program was held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in AWF's permanent campus in Madhderchar, Shyamlapur, Keraniganj. The program featured solo musical performances, group songs and recitals, group dances, drama skits, and a fashion parade.

The Honourable Managing Director and CEO of Runner Auto Mobiles PLC, Mohammad Nazrul Islam, FCA, will preside over the event as Chief Guest. Legendary classical dancer and Director of Nrityanchal Dance Company Shibli Mohammad will attend as a Special Guest.

In addition, many prominent cultural dignitaries, professionals from various walks of life, media personalities, and successful individuals from different fields enjoyed the students' performances at the event.

Dr. Rownak Hafiz, the Founder and Chief Advisor of the Autism Welfare Foundation (AWF), and Professor Sharmeen Yasmeen, the chairperson of AWF, presided over the event.

Esteemed Directors of Runner Group of Companies and the Director Panel of Confidence Group, as well as high-ranking government officials and representatives of various welfare organisations, were present at the cultural program.

Also present at the event were the Vice Chairperson of AWF and Acting Principal of Kanon: School of AWF, Ar Anika Tabassum, the Treasurer of AWF, Professor Sabrina Ishrat, and other members, parents, students, and teachers of the institution.

The programme began with a recitation from the Holy Quran by fellow student Abdul Majed. Md. Ashrar Billah Khan Rakin, an AWF student, hosted the event. The exceptional skills of these talented students were evident in each moment of the delightful performances.

The cultural programme ended with the closing declaration by Professor Dr Sharmeen Yasmeen.