GTB, "On the road to future inclusion"

Guaranty Trust Bank is further demonstrating its CSR commitment and strong value system, with its support of Autism. The foremost African banking group has announced the theme for the Bank’s 2014 Autism Awareness program. The initiative themed “On the road to future inclusion” will take place from March 22^nd to April 2^nd, 2014.

This will be the 4^th edition of the programme which the Bank introduced in 2010

to create awareness and advocate for the requirements of persons living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), a neurological condition that presently affects 1 in every 88 children worldwide according to World research statistics.

Autism Spectrum Disorder as with other developmental challenges arises from insufficient development of a child’s physical, emotional or intellectual capacity. This Disorder, which is largely misunderstood by society makes it difficult for affected children to cope with the everyday demands of their environment and leads to varying stages of social stigmatization.

According to Mr. Segun Agbaje, Managing Director/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank plc, the Institution commenced its Autism Advocacy programme to ensure societal awareness and knowledge about the disorder, highlight the plight and requirements of person’s living with Autism, argue for the establishment of comprehensive and inclusive schools for affected children as well as integrated centers for adults, gather support and lobby for legislation that protects the rights of people living with developmental disabilities, encourage government and private organizations to fund research in Autism and clear up societal myths concerning Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The highlight of GTBank’s 2014 Autism programme will be the Awareness Seminar holding on the 31^st  of March and 1^st of April 2014 at the Muson Center, Onikan, Lagos. The seminar, which will be facilitated by International and local nutritionists, psychologists, educationists and medical practitioners will feature sessions on managing people with varying levels of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Members of the public can attend the seminar for free by registering at www.gtbank.com/autism.