By Elizabeth Osayande

As part of activities marking her 20th anniversary, Patrick Speech and Language Centre, PSLC, will on Sunday host two important events, an exhibition, and a film documentary themed “ Unlocking Autism.”

While the exhibition, the eighth edition title Legacy-unfiltered expression will feature woeks by Preye Azazi, Funom Oti Wenyang, Oluwadamiloju Yomi-Adeyemi, Odinakachukwu Ozor, Chijindu Chukwunomso Ijomah, and many more; the documentary will chronicle 20 years journey, challenges and triumphs of autism interventions in Nigeria.

Both events free and opened to the public will hold at Terra Kulture, VI at 2pm and 5 pm respectively.

Speaking about the journey of the foremost autistic centre in Nigeria, Founder/Director, Patrick Speech and Language Centre, PSLC, Mrs Dotun Akande, at a recent press briefing noted that a bold partnership backed by vision, courage, and a N45 million foundational investment has set in motion what would become one of Nigeria’s most impactful autism intervention movements.

PSLC founder noted that the hallmark of the anniversary will be the launch of a national initiative to champion employability for individuals with developmental differences; and also a Dance Drama production designed to translate complex policy issues into human stories that resonate, challenge societal perceptions around disability, and mobilise public and institutional action.

According to Akande: “We are launching a transformative national initiative aimed at moving beyond intervention into systems level change, with a clear and urgent mission, to champion employability for individuals with developmental differences, shape inclusive national policy, unlock underutilised talent across Nigeria, and drive a shift from stigma to economic and social inclusion.

“This marks a deliberate transition, from supporting children in therapy rooms to positioning neurodiverse individuals as contributors to Nigeria’s future workforce and economy.”

“Again, PSLC is deploying an unconventional but powerful tool, storytelling at scale. At the heart of its anniversary programme is a year long national initiative, anchored by an original Dance Drama production designed to translate complex policy issues into human stories that resonate, challenge societal perceptions around disability, and mobilise public and institutional action.

“This is not entertainment, it is strategic advocacy through art, designed to open minds, influence attitudes, and accelerate inclusion. “

Reiterating the impact of the centre, PSLC director explained that over the past two decades, the Centre has supported thousands of children and families by delivering multidisciplinary therapy services. It has pioneered early intervention models in Nigeria, trained over 300 therapists, educators, and caregivers through its academy, and expanded access through free and subsidised programmes via its non profit arm, Puresouls Learning Foundation.