Schools join in Autism Day

WITH people around the globe marking World Autism Day yesterday, Nelson Mandela Bay schools painted the sky blue in their bid to raise awareness about the disorder that affects on average one in 68 children.

In keeping with the global “Light it up Blue” theme, Port Elizabeth autism centre, St Bart’z Academy celebrated the day by releasing helium-filled blue balloons into the air.

Mostly dressed in blue, about 250 people joined in on the fun-filled event at the academy premises on William Moffett Expressway. All funds raised from balloons, cupcakes and doughnut sales went towards the school’s practical workshop programme. St Bart’z Academy was opened in 2008 and now accommodates 22 pupils. School director Andrea Thomas said the day was very successful and thanked the members of the public, schools and universities that attended the event.