The Continuing Education Center at Al-Kitab University, in collaboration with the Iradah Center for the Rehabilitation of Children with Autism in Kirkuk, organized a distinguished festival dedicated to persons with disabilities and children on the autism spectrum. The event brought together a select group of specialists and academics, as well as numerous students and other stakeholders.
The festival commenced with the recitation of Sūrat al-Fātiḥah in memory of Iraq’s martyrs, followed by the performance of the Iraqi national anthem. Thereafter, a speech was delivered on behalf of the University President by Assistant Professor Dr. Khalid al-Qaisi, in which he emphasized the importance of embracing and supporting these segments of society. He underscored that Al-Kitab University always keeps its doors open to humanitarian and scientific initiatives that contribute to building a more enlightened community.
The program featured a documentary screening on the current circumstances of persons with disabilities and those on the autism spectrum, which was succeeded by a series of awareness lectures. Assistant Professor Dr. Ahmad Mazin presented a lecture on the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities No. 38 of 2013 and its amendments. Mr. Ali Mahmoud Muhammad Zaidan, Director of the Iradah Center, then conducted a workshop addressing World Autism Awareness Day, elucidating its causes and the psychological and social support mechanisms available to those affected.
Additionally, Professor Dr. Shakib al-Halfi, founder of the Peace Doves Center for the Care of Children with Autism in Najaf al-Ashraf, delivered a scientific lecture on autism spectrum disorder, covering both its diagnosis and management strategies.
The festival also included sessions with several gifted children on the autism spectrum—particularly those proficient in Qur’anic memorization—and featured an art exhibition of works by autistic children, organized in collaboration with the College of Applied Arts at Al-Kitab University.
In conclusion, the Iradah Center and several participating children were honored, and Al-Kitab University was presented with a commemorative shield in recognition of its patronage of this humanitarian and educational event.
