The Eastern Region has witnessed a milestone in autism advocacy as Starminds Therapy Centre, in partnership with AfriVAN, launched the region’s first Autism Parent Training Series in Koforidua. The programme, themed “Empowering Parents, Raising Abilities,” brought together more than 60 caregivers, health professionals, and educators to strengthen child development and promote inclusive communities.
Held at the Koforidua Library, the initiative is part of Starminds’ broader mission to build systems of support around children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related developmental conditions.
Mrs. Sandra Quayson, Speech and Language Therapist and CEO of Starminds, described the event as a movement in the making. “We are here to empower parents because they are the best therapists. They are the first people children meet, and their role is central to early development,” she said.
Other experts reinforced the call for early intervention. Speech therapist Mrs. Zahra Ibrahim stressed that daily communication—not passive exposure to noise—builds language skills. “Reading aloud stimulates brain growth, strengthens memory, and supports communication,” she said. Occupational therapist Ms. Stacey Antwi also underscored the importance of monitoring milestones, cautioning against excessive screen use, which she said disengages children and slows development.
Specialist psychiatrist Dr. Gyanwa Opare-Addo from the Eastern Regional Hospital highlighted the neurological basis of autism, ADHD, and intellectual disabilities, urging parents to recognise that developmental delays are not signs of stubbornness but conditions requiring structured support.
The training also gave families a platform to share their stories. One parent, Mr. Kwabena Barnafo, who is raising triplets with autism, spoke about the struggles of late diagnosis and the transformation therapy has brought. “At three years, they couldn’t sit or focus. Today, with therapy, they can follow instructions and engage with us,” he said.
Interactive sessions allowed caregivers to learn practical strategies for use at home, in schools, and within communities.
The Eastern Regional series comes at a time when experts continue to push for greater awareness, affordable therapy services, and stronger inclusion policies in Ghana. By placing parents at the centre, organisers believe the programme could reshape the way communities support children with developmental conditions.
