KOMO CENTRE FOR UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

The Komo Centre was established to provide community-based services for children with Autism in Uganda. It is registered a community Based organization and has also been registered under a broad body, The Komo learning Centres in the USA.

It was started by Elizabeth Kaleeba who is the mother of a 12 year old autistic boy. Its first major project and current focus is the Komo Centre for Understanding Autism in Entebbe. The Centre opened in 2006, and is currently the country's only source of developmental stimulation and formal schooling for autistic children. It also provides information, guidance to families as well as advice and advocacy on behalf their families.

The Centre had planned to scale its operations up according to three year schedule, with the ultimate target of moving to a purpose-built facility in Mukono by January 2010 with a full complement of 60 children (30 autistic and 30 non-autistic pre-school children from disadvantaged families). However, this target has been put on hold due to lack of funding.

Our Vision:

Children with Autism leading a beneficial life

Komo Center mission

To create a better understanding of the condition Autism and improve the lives of children affected by Autism in Uganda as well as support and skills for parents and siblings.

Our Values:

Every Autistic child has the right to live a full life despite their condition.
Believe in providing an environment that provides understanding, love, care and support. Respect and Value for children with Autism.

Rationale for implementing projects:

Support an Autistic child to attend the centre: By supporting an autistic child to come to the centre, it is believed that various aspects in their lives will be improved. The child will have an opportunity to leave their home and socialize with other children. It will also give an opportunity for the care-takers at home to catch up on other aspects of life like paying attention to other siblings or respite from the hectic situation of having to look after a child with autism. The center currently has 4 children whose parents are unable to contribute to their well being at the centre. Period of sponsorship is January 2011 to November 2011

Constructing a shed:

There is need to invest in creating more space as autistic children always require lots of space to better concentrate on their work. At the moment the centre only has two rooms which have to be shared by their teachers, care-givers and children too. It becomes hard to concentrate on activity set especially if one of the children has a tantrum episode. The shed would act as class space but also space that can be used for vocational training. It is expected that construction of the shed will de done in 2 months. (Begin Jan 2011)

Enhance Learning (Class materials and use of Computer)

Children with Autism do require lots of material to do their work. Material can be paper, paints, Glue and use of computer. At the moment the center only has one functional computer which is connected to the internet where various on-line activities can be carried out by the children. Being connected to the outside world through this kind of media also ensures that we are able to network with others, including parents, communities working with autism and potential donors.
Materials targeted will be used for one year beginning January 2011- November 2011.