Punjab CM marks World Autism Day with historic education initiatives

• Maryam Nawaz says 27 divisional schools now host autism centers; 28 schools upgraded to Centers of Excellence

• Says govt prioritizes special education for lasting change, highlighting early diagnosis, therapies, and transport facilities ensure children’s full support

 LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday reaffirmed her government’s commitment to the education, training, and rehabilitation of children with autism, underscoring inclusion, equal opportunities, and the protection of their rights. She praised the establishment of Pakistan’s first government autism center and lauded Special Assistant Sania Ashiq and her team for their dedicated efforts.

Highlighting the provincial initiatives World Autism Awareness Day, Maryam Nawaz said that 27 divisional public schools across Punjab now host autism centers, with plans underway to expand diagnostic and therapeutic services to the district level. She described the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Center for Autism as “not just an institution but a social revolution,” noting that early diagnosis facilities are now available to support children at initial stages.

“Special children are not a burden but a blessing,” she said, stressing the urgent need to eliminate discrimination against them. She highlighted that Himmat Cards are being issued to special students, while transport facilities, including 70 dedicated buses, are being provided to every special education center. In addition, 28 special education schools are being upgraded into Centers of Excellence across the province.

Maryam Nawaz further shared that 313 institutions for special persons will be improved, with thousands of children already receiving education in existing Centers of Excellence in southern, central, and northern Punjab. She reiterated that, for the first time, special education has been prioritized as a key sector in Punjab, aiming to bring meaningful and lasting change to the lives of children with autism and other special needs.

SACM Sania Ashiq Highlights Support on World Autism Day

In a related message, Sania Ashiq, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister (SACM), said children with autism are not different but perceive the world uniquely. She emphasized that they deserve understanding, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and paid tribute to mothers who have dedicated their lives to caring for autistic children.

Under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, she said, efforts are underway to bridge the gap between society and children with autism, fostering an inclusive environment where their emotions and perspectives are recognized and respected. She described the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Center for Autism as a landmark initiative in building a Punjab where every child feels a sense of belonging.

Sania Ashiq added that, beyond free therapies and treatments, the government is committed to ensuring that children with autism feel supported and valued, with the Chief Minister standing firmly with them. She reaffirmed that the Special Education Department will integrate children based on their rights, not sympathy, stressing that every child is important and a valuable asset for the future.