By Elizabeth Osayande
One of the pioneer autism centres in Nigeria, Patrick Speech and Language Centre, PSLC, is set to mark its 20th anniversary with the launch of a national initiative to champion employability for individuals with developmental differences; and also a Dance Drama production designed to translate complex policy issues into human stories that resonate, challenge societal perceptions around disability, and mobilise public and institutional action.
Speaking at a press briefing, which had in attendance principal officials of PSLC, the Founder/Director, Mrs Dotun Akande, noted that a bold partnership backed by vision, courage, and a N45 million foundational investment 20 years ago has now become one of Nigeriaâs most impactful autism intervention movements.
According to Akande: âWe are launching a transformative national initiative aimed at moving beyond intervention into systems level change, with a clear and urgent mission, to champion employability for individuals with developmental differences, shape inclusive national policy, unlock underutilised talent across Nigeria, and drive a shift from stigma to economic and social inclusion.
âThis marks a deliberate transition, from supporting children in therapy rooms to positioning neurodiverse individuals as contributors to Nigeriaâs future workforce and economy.”
âAgain, PSLC is deploying an unconventional but powerful tool, storytelling at scale. At the heart of its anniversary programme is a year long national initiative, anchored by an original Dance Drama
production designed to translate complex policy issues into human stories that resonate, challenge societal perceptions around disability, and mobilise public and institutional action.
âThis is not entertainment, it is strategic advocacy through art, designed to open minds, influence attitudes, and accelerate inclusion. â
Reiterating the impact of the centre, PSLC director explained that over the past two decades, the Centre has supported thousands of children and families by delivering multidisciplinary therapy services. It has pioneered early intervention models in Nigeria, trained over 300 therapists, educators, and caregivers through its academy, and expanded access through free and subsidised programmes via its non profit arm, Puresouls Learning Foundation.
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