News
From Autism to Autistic: From Diagnosis to Life Experience
On June 6, 2025, the event "From Autism to the Autistic Person: From Diagnosis to Life Experience" took place, organized by Autismo Visible Ecuador with the support of UNESCO and the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador (PUCE). Tatiana Villegas, Representative of the UNESCO Office in Ecuador, participated with a presentation focused on the right to inclusive and equitable education for people with autism, highlighting the transformative role of educational systems in building more just, inclusive, and diverse societies.
The event brought together more than 450 people interested in reflecting about autistic individuals in Ecuador. Autistic people, families, experts, academics, students, and civil society organizations gathered in PUCE's Main Auditorium to collectively discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by autistic individuals.
In her remarks, UNESCO Representative Tatiana Villegas emphasized that Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) mandates that education must be inclusive, equitable, and of quality for all. However, despite progress made over recent decades in the field of education, numerous barriers still prevent millions of people, including those on the autism spectrum鈥攆rom fully exercising their right to lifelong learning.
鈥淓ducation systems must adapt to multiple social and subjective realities, not the other way around. Diversity must be understood as a strength, not as an exception to be merely tolerated,鈥 stated the UNESCO Representative.
She also shared international best practices, such as the case of New Brunswick (Canada), a pioneer in inclusive education, where specialized teacher training programs in autism and comprehensive public policies have been implemented to ensure learning environments that are safe, accessible, and respectful of neurodiversity.
The keynote address was delivered by Spanish psychologist Daniel Mill谩n L贸pez, who has worked for over twenty years with autistic individuals of all ages and their families. In his presentation, he reviewed the history of key concepts and definitions related to autism, its diagnosis, innovative therapies, the use of therapy groups for children diagnosed with Asperger's, the implementation of awareness programs, and the creation of screening tools for pediatricians and other professionals.
The event concluded with a Q&A session, during which the audience had the opportunity to raise questions and share personal experiences related to autism.
UNESCO reaffirms its commitment to building inclusive, equitable, quality educational systems鈥攚here neurodiversity is recognized as a strength and where all individuals can reach their full potential in a respectful and supportive environment.
