Govt to set up daycare centres for children with Autism
- By KirshCNL
- July 10, 2025
- Health & Social Welfare, News, Political
- Autism
- 0 Comments
The government of Sri Lanka is set to allocate Rs. 250 million under this year’s budget to establish daycare centres for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, will be implemented through district-level administrators.
The decision was made during a meeting held yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat, chaired by Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake. Officials were instructed to prepare a comprehensive concept proposal within two weeks. The proposal is expected to outline the development of specialised human resources, a scientifically validated care model, and clear operational guidelines for the centres.
The programme is being championed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who has called for a coordinated inter-ministerial effort to ensure its success. The Presidential Secretariat will oversee implementation across relevant ministries and departments.
Participants at the session underscored the importance of an integrated support framework, involving healthcare providers, education specialists, and social service officers, to deliver comprehensive care for children and their families.
Senior officials present included Kapila Janaka Bandara, Senior Additional Secretary to the President; K.D.R. Olga, Secretary to the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs; Sampath Manthrinayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Infrastructure; H.A. Hema Perera, Additional Secretary; and Darshani Karunaratne, Director, Department of Social Services. Representatives from the ministries of health, social services and rural development also participated.
Medical professionals such as Dr. Varuni Rasadi from the Ministry of Health, Dr. Asiri Hewamalage, Deputy Director (Community Health), and Dr. Santhushitha Senadhipathi from Lady Ridgeway Hospital,also attended the discussions.
