Prishtinë, 30 March 2018 – On the eve of marking the World Autism Day, the Ombudsperson accompanied by Deputy Ombudsperson Mrs. Marija Raduloviç and his associates, visited children with autism in the Primary school “Ismail Qemali” in Prishtinë.

Upon his informing on the status and the conditions of the work of children with autism, the Ombudsperson stated that there is an issue of indirect discrimination and that relevant institutions should fulfilled conditions required by the law, so that children with autism can also attend their school lessons in compliance with their specific needs.

During the visit, school principal Mrs. Hatmane Demiri, provided the Ombudsperson with information regarding the number of children with autism, the general number of children with special needs, informed on conditions in which children learn and conduct their activities as well as on the work of teachers and assistant teachers. She also revealed a wide range of problems with which children face but their parents as well. She emphasized lack of transport for children to school, which is legal liability. She also pointed the fact that the school budget is very limited and the incapability of school to provide everything what is needed for this category of children.

Further on the Ombudsperson visited the premises where children with autism stay. In a conversation with their teachers, they were informed on their concerns related to the conditions in which children stay there.