April 2 — World Autism Awareness Day Many of us do not even realize that nearby — in the next entrance, in the classroom or in the office — there may be people who perceive this world completely differently. Autism is not a disease that needs to be treated, it is a feature of development, a different “universe” inside a person. Such people can be extremely talented, but at the same time very vulnerable to noise, bright light or simple human misunderstanding.
Today is a great reason to simply be a person. To be more tolerant, kinder and more open. Because the true value of society is measured by how it takes care of those who are not like it.
At Khai, we do not just know about this day — we work every day to ensure that every person feels safe and respected. At the initiative of Acting Rector Oleksii LYTVYNOV, we have an Office of Equality, Inclusion and a Safe Environment. We are building a university where “inclusion” is not a term from a textbook, but real support for everyone:
- we implement modern standards of ethics and non-discrimination through the Equality Commission;
- we create a space where everyone has the right to be themselves, regardless of the peculiarities of their perception of the world;
- the Office is home to the Psychological Health Space, which is focused on the “How are you?” program.
A place where you can “reboot”
An important step was the opening of the Mental Health Room in the safe space of Khai on December 8 last year. For people with autism or increased sensory sensitivity, such a space is vital. It is a “quiet haven” where you can:
- reduce stress levels;
- restore your emotional state in silence;
- take a break when the world becomes too “noisy.”
We are implementing KhAI’s third mission — public service.
Today, April 2, we urge everyone to be more considerate of others. Your smile or simple understanding can mean the world to someone.
