During a meeting, she emphasized the importance of inclusive education and the role of special children in society, stating, "Special children are our special heroes."
One of the standout initiatives is the first government-run autism school in Lahore, which is currently in its final stages of construction.
The school will be the first of its kind in the region, marking a major shift in how educational institutions address the needs of children on the autism spectrum.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif has pledged that this school will offer free treatment for children with autism, easing the financial burden that many families face.
As the project is rapidly approaching completion, the government aims to have the school ready within a record timeframe of just one year, making this initiative an urgent and highly anticipated milestone in Punjab’s educational reforms.
This strategic expansion will ensure that children with autism are provided with the specialized support they need within their local communities.
10 Autism Units to Support Special Education
Sania Ashiq’s role will include overseeing the progress of the facility, ensuring that the building meets the highest standards of accessibility and functionality. Her appointment to this crucial role reflects the seriousness with which the government is approaching this initiative.
In addition to infrastructural developments, the Punjab government has made significant strides in improving the daily lives of special students through the distribution of assistive devices.
A total of 9,206 devices have been distributed to students across the province, including hearing aids, wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and white canes.
These devices are crucial for enabling students with disabilities to participate fully in both educational and social activities, further advancing the goal of inclusive education.
A key part of the ongoing reforms in Punjab’s special education system is the upgrading of existing schools. Furthermore, the government is working on a project to transform 28 special education schools into centers of excellence.
Curriculum Development for Special Students
In a groundbreaking move to cater to the diverse needs of special students, the Punjab government has developed a specialized curriculum for children up to grade 5.
This curriculum includes a translated version of the Holy Quran tailored for hearing-impaired students, ensuring that these children can access religious education in a manner suited to their needs.
Furthermore, 14 students have completed the first batch of the Special Education Vocational Matriculation program, a course designed to equip students with the skills necessary for entering the workforce.
