LAHORE, April 3, 2025 – On the occasion of “World Autism Awareness Day,” Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, extended heartfelt Eid greetings to children with autism and reaffirmed her government’s commitment to improving the education, training, and rehabilitation for children suffering from autism. In her statement, she emphasized that children with autism are not to be seen as patients but as special individuals who require tailored care and support.
The Chief Minister proudly declared that for the first time in Punjab’s history, special education for children with autism has become a key priority for the provincial government. She highlighted the ongoing efforts to introduce comprehensive employment programs and the “Rising Star Card” initiative to support the inclusion of special children in mainstream society. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to improve the quality of life for children with autism and equip them with the necessary tools for integration into both the educational system and workforce.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif also mentioned the significant progress made with the establishment of Pakistan’s first government-run autism school, which is nearing completion in Lahore. This institution will serve as a hub for special education, offering early autism diagnosis as part of its services. Early diagnosis, especially for children at the tender age of three, is crucial as it allows for more effective and potentially curable treatment, according to the CM.
In addition to the autism school, Maryam shared that her government has distributed gift packs to 40,000 children across Punjab on the occasion of Eid, providing a gesture of love and support for families of children with autism. Furthermore, 12 dedicated autism units have been set up at special education centers, and autism centers have been introduced in 27 divisional public schools across the province, bringing vital resources closer to families.
The Punjab government has also launched several initiatives to further support the educational development of special children. This includes a “Packed Food Meal Programme” designed to ensure that special children have access to nutritious meals. Additionally, digital touch screens are being installed in District Special Education Centres of Excellence to facilitate interactive learning. The government has introduced a Special Education Information System and established a helpline (1162), ensuring that families and caregivers have ready access to vital resources and support. A mobile app has also been functionalized, providing a convenient platform for managing and accessing special education services.
In line with her commitment to improving infrastructure, the Chief Minister announced the upgrading of 28 special education schools across the province into Centres of Excellence for Special Education. These upgraded centers will offer a more specialized curriculum tailored to the needs of children with intellectual disabilities. A new syllabus has also been developed to ensure that these children receive the highest quality education designed for their specific needs.
In a bid to ensure the safety and security of children with special needs, Maryam Nawaz Sharif revealed that 3,450 CCTV cameras are being installed in special education centers across Punjab. These cameras will enhance the monitoring and safety of children both inside the centers and on buses. Furthermore, additional security cameras will be placed in schools, centers, and transportation vehicles, reflecting the government’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable children.
In a groundbreaking move, the Punjab government has introduced the “Ring Fencing” of the special education budget, ensuring that adequate financial resources are allocated specifically for the development of services and facilities for children with autism.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif concluded her remarks by reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children with autism and their families. She expressed optimism that the continued efforts would bring about significant positive change in the lives of these children, empowering them with the necessary skills and resources to lead fulfilling lives.