The government has decided to move forward with a comprehensive plan to establish a national network of daycare and therapy centres for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).
As per the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake has instructed officials to submit a detailed concept proposal within two weeks, following discussions held at the Presidential Secretariat, the PMD stated.
This initiative will be implemented under the supervision of the Presidential Secretariat and will involve a coordinated effort across multiple ministries and government departments. A sum of Rs. 250 million allocated in the 2025 budgetwill be utilised through the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, with funding directed to district-level administrators for effective rollout.
The programme focuses on developing specialised human resources, creating a scientifically validated care model, and setting up operational guidelines for the centres. Officials stressed the importance of an integrated, multi-sectoral approach involving healthcare professionals, education specialists, and social services to ensure comprehensive support for children and their families.
The initiative represents a significant step toward inclusive care and early intervention for children with neurodevelopmental challenges across Sri Lanka.
