About 

Action For Autism (AFA) National Centre for Autism is a not-for-profit organisation and autism-focused centre located in Jasola Vihar, New Delhi. Action For Autism began in 1991 as a parent-led initiative to create awareness and support for people with autism and their families, while the National Centre was established to bring its expanding services under one roof. AFA was founded and is led by Merry Barua, and its broader purpose is to support individuals with autism across their lifespan through education, assessment, intervention, employment, independent living, advocacy, research and family support.

The AFA National Centre for Autism is located at Pocket 7 & 8, Jasola Vihar, New Delhi – 110025. The centre was developed after AFA's earlier operations at Vasant Kunj and Chirag Delhi became inadequate for its expanding services. The foundation stone was laid in 2004, and the National Centre was subsequently dedicated to bring AFA's different activities and services together. AFA also has related initiatives and facilities, including vocational and supported-living activities.

AFA is primarily a specialised autism service, education, training and support organisation rather than a conventional university or college, so conventional university affiliations, NAAC accreditation and NIRF rankings do not apply to the organisation as a whole. However, its B.Ed. Special Education (Autism Spectrum Disorders) programme is recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and is conducted in affiliation with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU). AFA also conducts RCI-recognised Diploma in Education–Special Education training and other professional training programmes.

The National Centre operates through several specialised wings and programmes rather than conventional colleges or faculties. These include Open Door Clinical Services, which provides direct services; AADHAAR, a vocational centre for adults with autism; Anvay, which focuses on research and training; AAHAAN, associated with publications; and AAILAAN, focused on advocacy. AFA's educational programmes include the Open Door Day Programme, Parent-Child Training Programme, Individualised Educational Intervention, Individualised Programme for Outstation Families and Computer Learning Programme.

AFA offers specialised education, training and professional development programmes rather than conventional undergraduate streams. Its major training programmes include the two-year full-time B.Ed. Special Education (ASD) and the two-year Diploma in Education–Special Education (ASD), along with short-term workshops, certificate programmes and customised training. Eligibility varies by programme; for the B.Ed. Special Education programme, candidates generally require the prescribed bachelor's or master's qualification with the specified marks and must successfully complete the GGSIPU Common Entrance Test. AFA's educational services for children are assessment-based and use individualised educational planning, while financial assistance and scholarships may vary by programme and applicant circumstances.

The National Centre provides a broad range of specialised facilities and services, including assessments, educational programmes, occupational and sensory interventions, family support, self-advocacy programmes, assisted living initiatives, vocational training and employment support. Educational programmes emphasise communication, social understanding, play and leisure, self-care and other life skills through individualised plans. The vocational centre provides structured work-based learning and workplace skills for autistic adults, while AFA also conducts workshops and professional training at the National Centre.

Rather than operating a conventional college placement cell, AFA focuses on vocational training, work preparation and inclusive employment pathways. Its Vocational Centre supports autistic adults through structured work-based learning, development of workplace and communication skills, and opportunities to earn a stipend. AFA works with employers and organisations to strengthen inclusive employment practices and provides workplace preparation and skill-building support. Some trained professionals and students may also find employment opportunities within AFA and other special-education organisations.

Overall, Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi is a specialised organisation dedicated to improving educational, social, vocational and independent-living opportunities for people with autism and supporting their families. Its combination of direct services, specialised education, professional training, research, advocacy and employment initiatives makes it a multidisciplinary centre focused specifically on autism and inclusion.

Specialised Autism-Focused Education

Action For Autism (AFA) focuses specifically on autism and provides specialised educational, therapeutic, vocational and family-support services. Its programmes are designed around the individual needs of people with autism, with emphasis on communication, social understanding, self-care, learning and life skills.

Recognised Special Education Programmes

AFA offers professional training programmes for those interested in developing careers in special education. Its B.Ed. Special Education (Autism Spectrum Disorders) is a two-year, full-time programme recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and conducted at AFA in affiliation with Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU).

Practical and Hands-on Training

Students and trainees receive practical exposure through workshops, demonstrations, field visits, supervised activities and hands-on learning. This approach helps learners connect theoretical concepts with real-world situations involving individuals with autism and their families.

Experienced Multidisciplinary Environment

AFA brings together professionals from different areas related to autism and special education. Its training environment can include expertise in special education, psychology, social work, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy and other allied areas, supporting a broader understanding of autism.

Individualised Educational Approach

AFA's educational programmes begin with assessment and use individualised educational planning based on the learner's strengths, needs, behaviour and learning patterns. Family participation is also encouraged so that skills developed through intervention can be reinforced across different environments.

Career and Employment Opportunities

AFA provides career-oriented training in special education and vocational skills. Its programmes can prepare trainees for roles in special schools, mainstream schools, special-needs organisations and related professional settings. AFA also states that some trained professionals are absorbed within the organisation.

Comprehensive Support Services

The National Centre provides services covering different stages of life, including assessments, educational programmes, occupational and sensory interventions, work and employment support, family empowerment, self-advocacy and assisted living. This makes the centre a multidisciplinary environment rather than a conventional educational institution.

Short-Term and Customised Training

AFA also conducts short-term workshops, certificate programmes and customised training for parents, professionals, students and others interested in autism. These programmes can be tailored to specific learning needs and may include practical observation and hands-on exposure.

Vision

Action For Autism (AFA) envisions a society where people with autism are respected, accepted and included as equal members of the community. The organisation works towards creating an environment where individuals with autism can develop their abilities, exercise choice, live with dignity and participate meaningfully in education, employment, family and community life.

Mission

The mission of Action For Autism is to improve the quality of life of people with autism and their families through education, intervention, training, research, advocacy and support services. AFA works to increase awareness and understanding of autism, strengthen professional capacity, promote inclusive education and employment, and develop opportunities for greater independence and participation. The organisation also supports families and professionals through specialised services, training programmes and information resources.

Admission to programmes offered by Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi, depends on the specific course or training programme selected by the candidate. Applicants should check the eligibility requirements, course details and admission notifications issued by the institution before applying. Eligible candidates can submit the required application form along with the necessary academic and personal documents within the specified deadline. For recognised special education programmes, candidates may need to meet the eligibility criteria prescribed by the concerned regulatory or affiliating authority. The selection process may include document verification and other requirements specified for the particular programme. Candidates who complete the admission formalities and pay the applicable fees can proceed with the programme as per the institution's academic schedule.

Admission Criteria 

B.Ed 

Admission Process

• Candidates should check the eligibility criteria and admission notification for the B.Ed. Special Education programme before applying.

• Eligible candidates need to complete the application form and submit the required academic and personal documents within the specified deadline.

• Applications are reviewed based on the prescribed eligibility requirements of the programme and the concerned affiliating/regulatory authorities.

• Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete document verification or any additional selection formalities specified by the institution.

• Selected candidates must pay the prescribed admission fees and complete the required formalities to confirm their seat and begin the programme.

Eligibility

• Candidates should have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in any relevant discipline.

• Candidates must meet the minimum percentage requirement prescribed by the affiliating and regulatory authorities for the programme.

• The qualifying degree should be from a recognised university or institution.

• Candidates should fulfil any additional requirements prescribed by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and the concerned affiliating university.

• Admission is subject to document verification and fulfilment of the programme-specific eligibility conditions.

Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi may provide financial assistance or scholarship support depending on the programme, eligibility requirements and applicable schemes. Students pursuing recognised programmes should check the latest admission notification and fee information for details of any available concessions or financial support. Candidates may also explore scholarships offered by government departments, universities or other recognised agencies based on their academic performance, category and financial eligibility. Applicants should submit the required documents within the specified period to avail any applicable scholarship or fee assistance.

Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi focuses on developing practical skills, professional knowledge and employment readiness through its education, vocational training and skill-development initiatives. Students and trainees can gain exposure to autism education, special education practices, intervention and support services, depending on their programme. The organisation also works towards improving employment opportunities and workplace participation for individuals with autism. Placement or career support may vary according to the specific course, so students should check the latest programme information for details regarding internships, employment assistance and career opportunities.

Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi provides a specialised environment for autism education, intervention, training, research and family support. Its facilities and resources are designed to support practical learning and the development of skills among special education students, professionals and caregivers. The centre offers training and resource facilities related to autism education and intervention, along with vocational and employment-oriented support for individuals with autism. It also promotes research, documentation and knowledge sharing through educational resources and publications. Family support and guidance services help parents and caregivers understand educational and developmental needs, while the organisation's inclusive initiatives encourage greater participation of people with autism in education, employment and community life.

Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi is primarily a specialised autism education, training and support organisation, and hostel accommodation may not be available as a standard campus facility. Students enrolling in its programmes should confirm the current accommodation arrangements directly with the institution before admission. Candidates coming from outside New Delhi can explore nearby private hostels, paying guest (PG) accommodations and rental options in and around Jasola Vihar. Availability, facilities and charges may vary depending on the accommodation provider

Action For Autism National Centre for Autism, New Delhi is located in Jasola Vihar and can be accessed conveniently through various modes of public transportation. Students and visitors can use nearby metro stations, buses, auto-rickshaws and taxis to reach the centre. The location provides connectivity to different parts of New Delhi and the surrounding areas. Candidates are advised to check the latest information from the institution regarding any transport or commuting facilities provided specifically for students.