GTBank Hosts 4th Annual Autism Workshop: Enhancing Advocacy for Inclusive Care
Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) has once again demonstrated its dedication to autism advocacy by successfully hosting the fourth edition of its annual autism workshop and consultation. This event reinforces GTBank’s commitment to raising awareness, promoting early intervention, and providing inclusive support for individuals on the autism spectrum.
A Focus on Autism Inclusion
The 2025 edition, themed “From Awareness to Action: Advancing Autism Inclusion,” took place over four days at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA). Beginning on Monday, July 21, the event featured an in-depth workshop followed by a three days free consultation clinic from Tuesday, July 22, to Thursday, July 24.
This initiative unites professionals from medical, educational, and caregiving sectors with families to enhance understanding and acceptance of autism in Ghana and beyond.
Engaging Workshops and Consultations
The workshop on July 21 served as a pivotal part of the event, featuring expert-led panel discussions and interactive sessions. These sessions were designed to empower participants with the skills to identify, support, and advocate for individuals living with autism.
Agnes Owusu-Afram, the Head of Corporate Communication and Customer Experience, emphasized that this program transcends typical corporate social responsibility efforts. “This initiative has evolved into a platform for self-advocacy, education, and awareness on autism. The feedback has been incredibly encouraging,” she stated.
Transforming Attitudes Toward Autism
Owusu-Afram highlighted the positive changes in attitudes among teachers and caregivers. “Educators are now more empathetic and knowledgeable about handling neurodiverse behavior,” she noted. “Instead of punishing children for not conforming to traditional classroom norms, they’re learning to understand and appropriately respond to their behavior.”
Parents and guardians have also benefited from this initiative, leading to informed decisions regarding their children’s schooling and recognizing their unique strengths and capabilities.
A Broader Community Impact
Dr. Kennedy Brightson, Head of Family Health at the Ghana Health Service (GHS), commended GTBank for its impactful initiative. He reminded attendees that autism can affect any family, emphasizing the importance of community awareness. “Children with autism live within our communities, not in isolation,” he remarked.
Dr. Brightson affirmed the GHS’s commitment to supporting individuals with autism and encouraged health workers to prioritize compassionate care.
A Regional Platform for Change
Since its inception, the GTBank Autism Workshop has evolved into a respected regional platform, assisting thousands of families and influencing crucial policy discussions surrounding neurodiversity. GTBank’s ongoing investment in autism advocacy reflects its broader mission to create meaningful social impact beyond the financial sector, envisioning a future where inclusion and empowerment are standard.
The 4th GTBank Autism Workshop stands as a powerful call for empathy, acceptance, and systemic change. GTCO, in a previous statement, reiterated its commitment to dignity, inclusion, and social development, reinforcing its role as a leader not just in finance but in community upliftment.
