A question pops up at the doorstep
The Hindu
Parents of children on the spectrum consider the pandemic a ‘wake-up call’
Parents of those on the autism spectrum obsess over one question — “What after us?” In most cases, the chilling thought is projected deep into the future. The pandemic has brought it awkwardly and uncomfortable close. Kavitha Krishnamoorthy, co-director of Thiruvanmiyur-based The CanBridge Academy, which offers a “space for young adults with autism to explore skills”, explains: “What the second wave is really bringing home to the community — parents and professionals working in the community — very clearly is the possibility of the death of the primary caregiver.” In groups run for the community, there are messages that bring such dismal tidings — at least one a week, she points out.
‘Instead of accusing Gen-Z of lacking skills or discipline, we need to ask what drives them’ Premium
At a recent event held in the city, Cambridge University Press & Assessment launched an advisory panel comprising leaders from top global corporations, aiming to bridge the employability gap in India and better align academic output with industry needs. A whitepaper released at the event highlighted the growing importance of communication skills, the need for stronger collaboration between industry and universities, and strategies to bridge the persistent skill gap.

Under the NBS, newborns are screened for communication disorders before they are discharged from the hospital. For this, AIISH has collaborated with several hospitals to conduct screening which is performed to detect hearing impairment and other developmental disabilities that can affect speech and language development. The screening has been helping in early intervention for those identified with the disorders, as any delay in the identification poses risk and affects successful management of children with hearing loss, according to AIISH.