WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday laid the foundation stone for a national Center of Excellence for Autism, directing that the state-of-the-art facility be completed within one year instead of the initially planned two.
Addressing the ceremony, the prime minister said it was the responsibility of the government to utilise all available resources for children with special needs. He praised the performance of the children present and described their support as a collective social duty.
“If a child is deprived of one ability, Allah Almighty blesses them with several other capabilities,” he said, paying tribute to parents for their dedication to the upbringing of their children.
The prime minister also announced the provision of 15 new buses to facilitate transportation for the institution and other affiliated facilities.
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During the event, autism expert Aisha Haroon shared her personal and professional journey, saying her life took a new direction after her son was diagnosed with autism. She said she has been working with children with autism for the past 15 years and gained experience from a specialised institution in the United Kingdom.
Haroon said her centre currently employs 55 trained staff members and focuses on preparing children with autism to become productive and constructive members of society.
The ceremony highlighted a shared commitment by the government and professionals to strengthen support systems and expand inclusive opportunities for individuals with autism across Pakistan.
