Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the Ujala Centre, a facility dedicated to children with autism and other disabilities, on World Children’s Day, and announced the development of Ujala-II through a partnership between the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) and the Ujala Centre in Defence Phase VIII.
Shah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to addressing the needs of all children, including those with disabilities, and fostering a more inclusive society. “An inclusive Sindh is a prosperous Sindh. Every child deserves equal opportunities to thrive.”
The CM visited the Ujala Centre on 20 November 2024, touring the facility and engaging with stakeholders to better understand the challenges faced by children with disabilities, particularly those with autism.
He received a comprehensive briefing on the Ujala-II C-ARTS DEPD project, which aims to support children with autism and related conditions by providing specialised educational and therapeutic services.
Headed by Yakoob Zakria, Ujala-II will be established over an area of 400 square yards. The CM praised Zakria’s efforts for creating a nurturing environment for children, and emphasised the importance of expanding such initiatives to promote inclusive education across Sindh.
He directed the Ujala-II consultant to complete the project within two years instead of three. He also met with the parents of children with autism to gain insight into the challenges they encounter in their daily lives. Parents shared their concerns about the lack of inclusive recreational spaces, societal stigma, and limited resources for therapy and education.
He empathised with them, and directed Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab to dedicate a separate park for children with disabilities in Clifton Block 5.
“The Sindh government is committed to improving facilities for children with special needs. This park will feature wheelchair-accessible pathways, sensory play areas, and other amenities designed to meet the needs of children with physical and developmental disabilities. “We want our children to grow up in an environment where they feel included, empowered and supported.”
The parents of children with autism also told the CM that their children were struck out from school. Shah directed DEPD Secretary Tuaha Farooqi to redress the grievances of the parents and keep him in the loop.
Shah also discussed the provincial government’s upcoming Inclusive City project. “This initiative aims to transform urban spaces into more accessible and inclusive environments for all residents, especially those with disabilities.”
The project will focus on enhancing public infrastructure, improving transportation facilities, and promoting awareness about inclusion and diversity, he pointed out.
Published in News Daily on 21-November-2024.