The Sri Lankan government is moving forward with plans to establish a national network of daycare and therapy centres for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions.
Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has directed officials to prepare a detailed concept proposal within two weeks, following discussions held yesterday (July 09) at the Presidential Secretariat.
This initiative, championed by President Anura Kumara Disanayake, aims to create a coordinated system involving multiple ministries and government departments, with the Presidential Secretariat overseeing implementation.
The programme will utilise a Rs 250 million allocation from this year’s budget, channelled through the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs to district-level administrators. Key aspects of the plan include developing specialised human resources, creating a scientifically validated care model and establishing clear operational guidelines. During yesterday’s meeting, officials emphasised the need for an integrated approach that brings together healthcare providers, social services and education specialists to ensure comprehensive support for affected children and their families.
Senior government figures attending the planning session 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, Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security & Community Infrastructure, H.A. Hema Perera, Additional Secretary, Darshani Karunaratne, Director, Department of Social Services and representatives from health, social services and rural development ministries. Medical specialists such as Dr. Varuni Rasadi from the Ministry of Health, Dr. Asiri Hewamalage, Deputy Director (Community Health) and Dr. Santhushitha Senadhipathi from the Lady Ridgeway Hospital also attended the discussions.
(President’s Media Division)