14/04/2026
On the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day, Global Academy Intelligence (GAiN) Global Academy Intelligence - GAiN led a high-level interdisciplinary engagement in Morocco, combining academic dialogue with field-based observation to advance the agenda of neurodiversity acceptance and evidence-based autism intervention. This initiative was designed to support those accompanying neurodivergent individuals through the lens of applied behavioral science, particularly through the use of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), grounded in the latest research in the field. It adopts a comprehensive and systemic approach that considers all stakeholders within the internal and external environment who interact directly or indirectly with neurodivergent individuals, ensuring coordinated, ethical, and effective support systems.
A central highlight of this engagement was the presence of Dr. Hayat Daghay Hayat Daghay, clinical practitioner in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), international autism researcher, and Vice President of GAiN. Dr. Daghay is currently conducting an evaluative research study in Morocco examining the barriers to the implementation of ABA practices, as well as the structural, cultural, and systemic mechanisms influencing their adoption. Her work further aims to introduce and institutionalize ABA within higher education frameworks, including the development of Master’s and PhD-level academic programs. This effort contributes to positioning Morocco within the global trajectory of evidence-based behavioral sciences. In parallel, she is committed to training caregivers and guiding their practices to align with ethical ABA standards, in accordance with established licensing requirements and board certification guidelines. The GAiN delegation conducted a field visit to Wissal Center - The National Association of Autism in Settat, a pioneering initiative dedicated to supporting children on the autism spectrum. Founded and led by parents of a child with autism, the association represents powerful model of community-driven leadership and resilience.
