PM Shehbaz lays foundation for National Autism Centre

WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone for a national ‘Center of Excellence for Autism’ on Thursday, announcing an ambitious directive to complete the state-of-the-art facility within one year instead of the planned two. During the ceremony, he emphasized the government’s duty to mobilize all resources for children with special needs.

“It is the responsibility of the government of the day to employ all available resources for special children,” PM Shehbaz stated. He praised the remarkable performance of the children present and called supporting them a “collective social duty.” Addressing the audience, which included parents and experts, he reflected, “If a child is deprived of one ability, Allah Almighty blesses them with several other capabilities,” and paid tribute to parents dedicated to their children’s upbringing.

In a significant pledge, the Prime Minister also announced the provision of 15 new buses to facilitate transportation for the institution and other associated facilities.

Expert Highlights a Journey of Service and Learning

The event also featured prominent autism expert Aisha Haroon, who shared her personal and professional journey. She revealed that her own life’s direction changed when her son was diagnosed with autism, leading her into the field. “My child became a victim of autism, which changed the course of my life,” she said.

Haroon, who has been serving children with autism for 15 years, recounted her learning experiences from a specialized institution in the United Kingdom. Her center now employs 55 trained staff members. “The children at the institution are trained to become useful and constructive individuals in society,” she explained, outlining the center’s goal of holistic integration.

The ceremony underscored a dual commitment from both the highest levels of government and grassroots experts to enhance support systems and create inclusive opportunities for individuals with autism in Pakistan.