Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Unveils Autism Support Initiatives

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her commitment to the education, training, and rehabilitation of children with autism.

In a special message, CM Maryam Nawaz extended Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to children with autism, emphasizing that for the first time, 40,000 children across Punjab have received Eid gift packs. She stated, “Children with autism are not patients but special individuals.” She highlighted that special education and the needs of special children have been prioritized in Punjab for the first time, with ongoing efforts to introduce an employment program for special individuals and a “Rising Star Card” for special children.

The Chief Minister announced that Pakistan’s first government-run autism school in Lahore is nearing completion. This facility will offer early-stage autism diagnosis, enabling easier treatment for affected three-year-olds.

She added that 12 dedicated autism units have been established in special education centers, and autism centers have also been set up in 27 divisional public schools across the province. Additionally, a packed food meal program for special children is in the pipeline.

CM Maryam Nawaz further revealed that digital touch screens are being installed at the District Special Education Center of Excellence. A Special Education Information System, a dedicated helpline (1162), and a functional mobile app have been launched. Moreover, 28 special education schools are being upgraded into Centers of Excellence for Special Education.

A new syllabus tailored to the categories of mentally affected special children has been developed, and 3,450 CCTV cameras are being installed in special education centers to ensure monitoring and safety. Additional cameras will be placed in schools, centers, and buses to enhance protection for special children.

She concluded by noting that, for the first time, the special education budget in Punjab has been ring-fenced, underscoring her resolve to bring positive change to the lives of children with autism.