The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and GAAC Join Forces for Autism Support in Central Asia

A New Era of Autism Care in Central Asia

In a significant development for autism advocacy in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation has announced its collaboration with the Global Autism Advocacy Coalition (GAAC) to establish a groundbreaking regional autism center. Set to become a hub for expertise and support for those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), this initiative seeks to enhance the accessibility of services and create tailored programs that reflect the unique needs of these communities.

A Vision for the Future

Almaz Sharman, the Chairman of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, presented the model for this center during the UN General Assembly in New York. He highlighted that sustainable support systems for individuals with autism must not only incorporate proven solutions but also adapt those solutions to fit the specific socio-economic contexts of each country. As part of the plan, the center will unite specialists from various sectors, including governmental representatives, to facilitate knowledge exchange and strengthen evidence-based approaches in autism care.

The foundation will leverage its extensive experience from its existing program, "Autism. One World for All," which currently operates 13 autism centers across Kazakhstan, providing aid to more than 17,500 children diagnosed with ASD. This proven model serves as an ideal template to launch similar initiatives in Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

Collaborative Framework

The partnership was formed in 2025, following the establishment of GAAC at the United Nations headquarters in New York. This global coalition, which includes prominent organizations such as the Qatar Foundation, Autism Speaks, the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF, aims to push for meaningful changes in autism awareness and support around the world. The Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, being a founding member of GAAC, emphasizes the importance of localized solutions that resonate with the communities they serve.

To achieve their objectives, the center will undertake various programs aimed at developing diagnostic services, early intervention techniques, and training professionals. These initiatives will not only address immediate needs but also promote a broader understanding of autism in society.

Building upon Success

Ainur Karbozova, the CEO of the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation, remarked on Kazakhstan's valuable experience gained over the years in supporting children with autism and their families. This local expertise will enrich the international dialogue on autism support, ultimately leading to enhanced practices and strategies tailored for the region.

Kazakhstan's success stories, backed by the dedication of professionals at the Asyl Miras centers, provide a solid foundation from which to build an impactful model for the wider region. The goal is clear: to create environments that foster inclusion, acceptance, and effective strategies that can be adapted and implemented according to local specifications.

Aim for Sustainability

The establishment of this regional autism center not only symbolizes a momentous step forward for the Bulat Utemuratov Foundation and GAAC but also signifies a broader commitment to improving the quality of life for individuals with autism in Central Asia and the South Caucasus. As the organization forges ahead, it stands firm in its resolve to foster collaborative efforts that are sensitive to regional challenges and leverage the existing knowledge base for sustainable success.

With the support of international partners and a clear vision for the future, this initiative aims to lay a strong foundation for autism care, ensuring a better tomorrow for those who need it the most. As we look forward, the message is one of hope, collaboration, and advancement in the field of autism advocacy and support across the region.