A technical partnership for national support
In September 2026, Straight From The Heart International, Inc. (SFTH) entered into a Technical Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (TPCA) with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Liberia, marking an important step toward strengthening national support systems for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) in Liberia.
Recognized technical expertise
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Health formally recognizes SFTH as a civil society technical partner with experience in Autism and IDD programming, stakeholder engagement, research, and community-based initiatives. SFTH will provide technical support to develop, implement, and strengthen national initiatives related to ASD and IDD, including policy dialogue, training, community engagement, and program development.
Shared priorities
The partnership focuses on several priority areas, including early identification and screening, strengthened referral pathways, caregiver and family support training, inclusive education, community-led stigma reduction, workforce capacity building, and stronger national policies and systems for Autism and IDD services. The agreement also provides for collaboration with health facilities, community health workers, education authorities, caregivers, civil society organizations, and community leaders.
Coordinating implementation
A Joint Technical Working Group (JTWG), chaired by the Ministry of Health and co-chaired by SFTH, will help coordinate implementation, review progress, address challenges, and facilitate engagement among relevant stakeholders.
From awareness to action
This partnership marks an important step in SFTH International’s mission to help build a Liberia where autistic individuals and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have greater access to early identification, appropriate support, education, inclusion, dignity, and opportunities to thrive. Together, we are moving from awareness to action—building sustainable support systems for Autism and IDD across Liberia.
Signatories to the agreement
Regional Director Ibrahim B. Dukuly signed the Technical Partnership and Cooperation Agreement on behalf of SFTH International, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Catherine Cooper signed it on behalf of the Ministry of Health.
Partnership announcement supplied by SFTH International. Agreement signed in September 2026; announcement published 7 October 2026.
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