Autism Awareness Campaign

Apr 28, 2026

The Department of Occupational Therapy, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, successfully conducted a comprehensive Autism Awareness Campaign across Fiza Mall, Ullal Beach, and Navajeevan Special School, aligned with the theme "Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value." The initiative aimed to promote awareness, early identification, inclusion, and advocacy for individuals with autism. The program was led by Dr. Dhayanithi K (OT) and Dr. Ananya Jana (OT) as Organising Chairpersons, with Dr. Anas (OT), Dr. Amanda S. Phillip (OT), and Dr. Ansu V. David (OT) as Organising Members, under the guidance of Dr. Prerna Lal (OT), Head of the Department, with active participation from 3rd and final year BOT students.

On Day 1 (28/04/2026), large-scale community awareness activities were conducted at Fiza Mall and Ullal Beach, including flash mobs, street plays, face painting, mehendi, public interaction, myth vs fact discussions, and distribution of pamphlets in Kannada, English, and Malayalam, along with QR-based digital resources. The campaign reached approximately 300-500 members of the public, effectively improving awareness on early signs of autism, addressing misconceptions, and promoting inclusive attitudes.

On Day 2 (29/04/2026), the outreach at Navajeevan Special School, Perla, Kerala, began with an inauguration ceremony in the presence of Fr. Jose Chempottical and Sr. Shency Jose, followed by a cultural performance and a street play on autism awareness. This was followed by caregiver and teacher training sessions, where Dr. Dhayanithi K (OT) spoke on sensory understanding and management strategies; Dr. Ananya Jana (OT) on inclusive education and advocacy; Dr. Amanda S. Phillip (OT) on caregiver burnout; Dr. Anas (OT) on structured routines; and Dr. Ansu V. David (OT) on autism myths vs facts. The sessions were highly interactive, equipping caregivers, teachers, and interdisciplinary professionals with practical knowledge to support children with autism.

A screening camp was conducted by final-year BOT students under faculty supervision, providing structured assessments, intervention guidance, and home programs. The program also included child-friendly activities such as colouring, worksheets, face painting, and mehendi, creating an inclusive environment for children, caregivers, and professionals. The department expressed gratitude to the University Management, Fiza Mall authorities, Ullal Beach Police Department, and Navajeevan Special School for their support. The initiative reflects the department's commitment to community engagement and underscores the importance of building an inclusive society that supports neurodiversity through awareness and early intervention.

An article about the event was published in the newspaper Vartha Bharathi (https://english.varthabharati.in/karavali/yenepoya-university-conducts-autism-awareness-campaign-in-mangaluru) and Daijiworld (https://www.daijiworld.com/news/newsDisplay?newsID=1313218).