Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
28 April 2025 | 17:10 CAT

Children with autism face systemic barriers in South Africa. Urgent action is needed to expand access to inclusive education and support services.

As April marks World Autism Awareness Month, urgent attention is being drawn to the systemic barriers that individuals with autism face across South Africa. Despite global progress, many autistic individuals in the country continue to struggle with access to education, employment, and healthcare.

Speaking to Radio Islam International, Debbie Fewster, a lecturer in Occupational Therapy at the University of Natal, emphasized the importance of early identification. “Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can sometimes be diagnosed as early as six months, although many children are only diagnosed between three and five years old,” she explained.

Highlighting the genetic link, Fewster noted, “Parents who have had one autistic child may be at risk of having another. Key early indicators include communication difficulties, lack of eye contact, and repetitive behaviors.” She urged parents to trust their instincts, saying, “Often parents will know something is not right with their child.”

Concerning diagnosis, Fewster stressed the need for vigilance. “If a child shows unusual responses to sensory stimulation, such as an aversion to loud noises or social withdrawal, parents should seek specialist advice,” she said.

A troubling aspect Fewster discussed is the frequent misinterpretation of autistic behaviors. “Because autism isn’t a visible disability, society often mislabels autistic children as naughty or blames the parents for poor discipline,” she said. “This misunderstanding compounds the challenges families already face.”

On the question of leading normal lives, Fewster offered a hopeful message. “Autistic individuals can live full, meaningful lives,” she stated. “Depending on where they fall on the spectrum, some may require minimal support, while others may need intensive assistance. With the right educational accommodations and family support, quality of life can be greatly improved.”

However, the availability of specialized education remains a concern. “Private schools offer support but are unaffordable for most South Africans. There is a desperate need for the Department of Education to provide more inclusive opportunities,” Fewster stressed. Organizations like Action in Autism and Pathways in Durban offer some services, but the shortage remains stark.

Fewster concluded with a call for action: “We need more accessible education and greater societal understanding to ensure our children with autism can thrive.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Moulana Muhammed Kara and Debbie Fewster here.