Mazarron becomes first town in southeast Spain to research the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder

Mazarrón Mayor Ginés Campillo has signed an agreement with the Rector of the UMU José Luján to improve cognitive accessibility and inclusion for students with autism

In a joint effort to address the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the municipality of Mazarrón, Mazarrón Town Council and the University of Murcia have formalised a collaboration agreement. The agreement has been signed by the Mayor of Mazarrón, Ginés Campillo, and the Rector of the University of Murcia, José Luján.

This agreement lays the foundations for carrying out a research project led by the Chair of Social Inclusion and Non-Cognitive Skills at the University of Murcia, under the direction of Professor Ildefonso Méndez. Mazarrón Councillor for Education, Silvia García, was also present at the event, as the councillor head of the education department from which this unique agreement in the Region of Murcia has been promoted.

The research will focus on two fundamental areas:

1. Determinant Factors: It will seek to identify the determining factors of the increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in Mazarrón.
2. Educational Development: It will study, identify and develop educational activities and materials for the school population affected by autism in the municipality.

The main objective of the project is to provide valuable information to understand and address the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder. In addition, the aim is to develop educational strategies and materials that improve cognitive accessibility and promote the inclusion of students with autism.

Evidence supports the idea that self-regulation skills are critical to children's cognitive, emotional, and social development. The project will address the four dimensions of human development at school ages: cognitive, emotional, social and physical.

This agreement reflects the commitment of both institutions to the well-being of the community, recognising the importance of public intervention to overcome the difficulties faced by some students. The development of innovative educational activities and materials will be essential to promote the inclusion and wellbeing throughout the lives of children with autism in Mazarrón.

With this agreement, Mazarrón becomes the first municipality in the southeast of Spain to join researchers in the task of improving the quality of life of children with ASD and their families.

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