Autism Eswatini had the privilege of hosting Professor Petrus de Vries from the University of Cape Town from 6 to 9 October 2024. His visit brought significant impact to the organization, focusing on strengthening autism awareness, services, and policies in Eswatini. Below is a summary of his engagements and activities during his visit.
Day 1: 06 October 2024
Arrival:
Professor De Vries arrived at King Mswati III International Airport at 2:00 PM. He was warmly welcomed by Autism Eswatini’s Executive Director, Mrs. Tryphinah Mvubu, the Mvubu family, and the organization’s staff.
Accommodation:
He was escorted to The George Hotel, where he would stay during his visit.
Meet and Greet:
At the hotel, Professor De Vries had a meet-and-greet session with several stakeholder from the Health Department and Deputy Prime Minister’s Office.
Day 2: 07 October 2024
- Meeting with the Ministry of Health:
At 8:30 AM, Professor De Vries attended a courtesy call with the Minister of Health and senior management. Discussions centered on strengthening autism services, combating stigma, and addressing neuropsychiatric disorders in Eswatini. - Autism Training and Indaba:
At 10:00 AM, he shared his expertise at the Autism Training and Indaba, an event hosted by Autism Eswatini to enhance capacity in autism care and advocacy.
Autism Symposium with Academia:
At 3:00 PM, he visited the University of Eswatini’s Mbabane campus, where he participated in an Autism Symposium. The discussions focused on strengthening mental health programs to integrate neurodevelopmental and mental health disorders.
Day 3: 08 October 2024
Meeting at the Psychiatric Hospital:
At 8:00 AM, Professor De Vries met with Dr. Mwanjali and hospital matrons to review standardized interventions for autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Graduation Ceremony:
At 10:30 AM, he graced the Autism Eswatini Graduation Ceremony, celebrating newly certified ASD rehabilitation technicians and practitioners.
Clinic Site Visit:
Later, he toured the site for Autism Eswatini’s upcoming clinic project in Nhlokohla.
Doctors’ Training:
At 6:00 PM, he gave an insightful presentation at a training session for doctors and medical practitioners hosted by Autism Eswatini.