Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has given the green light to several key initiatives aimed at improving education and welfare for children with special needs. These include the addition of 48 new buses, the inclusion of special children in the Himmat Card program, and the recruitment of top autism specialists from around the globe.
In a crucial meeting focused on special education chaired by the Chief Minister, it was revealed that Punjab has set a new record by enrolling over 5,000 special needs children in a very short span — a first in the province’s history. Maryam Nawaz praised the exceptional efforts of Special Assistant Sania Ashiq and her team.
It was agreed that the Maryam Nawaz Autism School will offer completely free therapy and education to underprivileged children, utilizing the expertise of leading professionals worldwide. Additionally, special children will be officially included in the Himmat Card scheme.
The meeting also approved the purchase of 48 new buses to support special education centers, and uniforms were sanctioned for students, teachers, and staff at the autism school. A 13-member Board of Governors has been formed, along with a strategic three-year plan for the Autism Resource Center.
Special Assistant Sania Ashiq shared that a tailored curriculum is being implemented at the school, which includes communication skills, life skills, Islamic and moral studies, technology, physical education, and social studies. Pakistan’s first autism school will also be equipped with facilities like an open gym, walking track, sensory garden, and sound therapy centers, serving children aged 3 to 16.
To ensure safety, CCTV cameras will be installed throughout the school, and Children Welfare Officers will oversee the students. A dedicated research and teacher training department will be established, where master trainers will provide advanced training to educators, alongside launching diploma and certificate programs lasting one year. These measures are expected to mark a historic advancement in the field of special education in Punjab.
