The bank has demonstrated its dedication to improving the lives of individuals with autism through its annual Autism Awareness Workshop, a programme that focuses on both health and education. The event, which aims to create awareness and provide practical solutions, brings together parents, teachers, caregivers, and health professionals to discuss issues surrounding autism and its effects on communities. *Key Highlights*
- Four-day workshop featuring expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and one-on-one consultations with specialists in behavioral analysis, health, and education.
- Hosted over 800 participants and streamed live across social media platforms.
- Feedback from past events showed significant impact, with teachers and parents better equipped to handle children who do not conform to traditional learning patterns.
GTBank Ghana’s divisional head for corporate communication and experience, Agnes Owusu-Afram, stated that the initiative reflects the bank’s long-term commitment to the communities where it operates. She highlighted that the bank’s involvement in autism awareness is crucial, given the condition’s effects on both health and education. “Autism touches on both health and education, two areas we are deeply invested in. This workshop is designed to give parents and teachers the tools to better understand children with autism, identify their strengths, and choose the right educational and behavioural interventions,” she said. The workshop was streamed live across social media platforms, allowing a wider audience to engage with the event. Participants included parents, teachers, caregivers, and health professionals who contributed to the discussion and gained valuable insights into autism awareness. Madam Owusu-Afram noted that the event has shown significant impact, with teachers and parents now better equipped to handle children who do not conform to traditional learning patterns. “Teachers now have a better understanding of how to engage children with autism, while parents are learning to identify what their children can and cannot do. This helps them choose the right schools and educational paths,” she added. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has commended GTBank for its efforts in raising autism awareness. The GHS has recognized the initiative as a model for corporate social responsibility.
| Quote from Dr. Brightson, Director of Family Health, GHS: | “No family is immune from autism, and these children can excel if given the chance. GTBank’s initiative is an excellent example of corporate social responsibility. If more organizations follow this path, it will ease the burden on public health bodies that are already overstretched.” |
Dr. Brightson, Director of Family Health, GHS, praised the programme for bringing autism awareness into the national conversation. He acknowledged that no family is immune to autism, and highlighted the importance of providing support and care for children with autism. In a joint effort with the GHS, GTBank has also been empowering nurses and community health workers to provide care and support at the community level. Dr. Brightson emphasized the significance of this initiative, noting that it will alleviate the burden on public health bodies and ensure that children with autism receive proper attention. “Wherever we operate, we owe it to the community to address its needs. Autism awareness is one of those needs,” said Agnes Owusu-Afram, highlighting the bank’s long-term commitment to CSR. Owusu-Afram noted that CSR initiatives like the Autism Awareness Workshop are not just about giving back but about addressing real community needs. She emphasized that the bank’s involvement in autism awareness is not only beneficial for children with autism but also has a broader impact on the community. The workshop continues to shape a future where children with autism are recognized, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. With strong backing from government representatives and enthusiastic community participation, the Autism Awareness Workshop is making a lasting impact in Ghana.
“Teachers now have a better understanding of how to engage children with autism, while parents are learning to identify what their children can and cannot do. This helps them choose the right schools and educational paths.”
This quote from Agnes Owusu-Afram highlights the significance of the Autism Awareness Workshop in promoting a more inclusive society. By providing practical solutions and raising awareness, the bank is helping to address real community needs and create a better future for children with autism. What Can We Learn from GTBank’s CSR Efforts?
* The importance of involving parents, teachers, caregivers, and health professionals in discussions surrounding autism and its effects on communities. * The significance of providing practical solutions and raising awareness for individuals with autism. * The value of building a more inclusive society through CSR initiatives. Key Takeaways
* GTBank Ghana’s Autism Awareness Workshop is a model for corporate social responsibility. * The workshop has made significant impact, with teachers and parents better equipped to handle children who do not conform to traditional learning patterns. * The bank’s involvement in autism awareness is not only beneficial for children with autism but also has a broader impact on the community.
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A neurological disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. *
The practice of businesses integrating social and environmental issues into their operations and decision-making processes. *
A society that values and promotes the inclusion of individuals with disabilities, including those with autism, in all aspects of life.
GTBank Ghana’s Autism Awareness Workshop is a shining example of the bank’s commitment to creating a more inclusive society.
