The Macau Association for Intellectual Development Services (MAIDS) organized its annual student art exhibition and competition, this year titled “Let the Stars Shine on the Campus” and the award ceremony was held at the venue of a Macau CSR strategic partner, the Rui Cunha Foundation, in May.

There were a total 25 oil paintings and 5 pieces of three dimensional artwork in the competition. The winning artworks were exhibited at the Rui Cunha Foundation gallery until 27 May.

MAIDS was founded in 1986 to provide services and programs for people with development disabilities in Macau. The organization hopes to improve the confidence of young people with varied intellectual difficulties through this art competition by seeing the public’s affirmation and appreciation of their artwork. It is also hoped that through education the misunderstanding of others regarding autism can be addressed, stereotypes can be reduced, and social inclusion can be encouraged.

Kam Kit Ling, Director of the Elderly Services Division of the Social Welfare Bureau, pointed out that providing an exhibition platform for young people with development disabilities aims to increase public understanding of their challenges.

She said, “The SAR government, as always, encourages people with development disabilities to develop their artistic potential, enhances public understanding of intellectual disabilities, and strengthens societal understanding and care for people with learning difficulties.”