President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has affirmed that every Maldivian child is invaluable and cherished by the nation.

He made this statement in a message posted on his official X account to commemorate World Autism Day.

Reiterating his message, the President emphasised that children with autism possess unique talents and skills essential to the country.

He underscored the national duty to support and care for these children.

World Autism Day is observed annually on 2nd April.

The 2025 observance, under the theme "Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)", highlights the intersection between neurodiversity and global sustainability efforts, showcasing how inclusive policies and practices can drive positive change for autistic individuals worldwide and contribute to the achievement of the SDGs.

Bringing together global experts, policymakers, and autistic voices, the event features keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, addressing areas such as inclusive healthcare, education, employment, and urban development. This year’s discussion explores the role of neurodiversity in shaping policies that promote accessibility, equality, and innovation across multiple sectors. Discussions focus on inclusive healthcare, quality education, workplace accessibility, reducing inequalities, and designing autism-friendly cities and communities.