Niksic Set to Build New Autism Center Valued at €3.7 Million

In a significant development for the community, the city of Niksic is preparing to initiate construction of a new autism center, projected to cost approximately €3.7 million. This project is part of the state budget for 2026 and aims to support individuals on the autism spectrum. The idea originated two years ago from the Dnevni Center for Children with Special Needs, which has received robust backing from local authorities and the Ministry of Education.

The planned center will be situated in Ozrinici, near a local school. The decision has also been made to demolish an abandoned school building, which has stood vacant for over a decade, to make way for this modern facility. As explained by Radovan Dragnic, director of the Dnevni Center, this new establishment is envisioned as a day center specifically designed for young individuals within the autism spectrum.

Design and Facilities

Plans for the center include the construction of two pavilions: one for older users and another for children. Additionally, a gymnasium will be part of the facility, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the care and development of its users. Dragnic emphasized that the center will be equipped to meet all necessary standards and will incorporate unique design features tailored to the needs of individuals with autism.

“Our institution has conducted thorough mapping and surveys with families who have experience with autism,” Dragnic stated. “We have shared these results with a Danish organization that specializes in this field to develop a preliminary design for the future building.” The project design is being handled by the Niksic municipal planning agency, which is expected to complete the architectural plans by the end of the year.

The construction will utilize special materials, with features like unique flooring, optimized lighting, and rounded corners to create a safe and accommodating environment. The future center is anticipated to cover an area of around 3,000 square meters, with the capacity to serve up to 200 users.

Community Support and Future Prospects

The local government is fully engaged in this initiative, recognizing the increasing demand for specialized services for children with autism. Dragnic noted that the projected center could serve approximately 100 users initially, with numbers expected to rise as awareness and support for autism increases.

Currently, the Dnevni Center in Niksic caters to about 60 users, with one-third diagnosed with autism. To accommodate the growing need, the center has recently shifted to two shifts, a temporary solution until the new facility is completed. Dragnic added that recruiting qualified professionals, such as speech therapists and psychologists, has been challenging, and that a long waiting list of families is ready to access the services the new center will provide.

The construction site spans 11,000 square meters, with preparatory work expected to commence shortly. Plans also include the potential for an animal area, as interaction with animals has been shown to benefit children with special needs. This initiative promises to make a significant impact on the lives of many families in the community.

In summary, the upcoming autism center in Niksic represents an essential step towards enhancing support and services for individuals on the autism spectrum, backed by a collaborative effort from local authorities and dedicated professionals.