Punjab First Government Autism School Nears Completion
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced that Pakistan’s first government autism school in Lahore is almost ready. This school will provide free treatment for children with autism and help reduce financial stress on parents. The project will be completed within a year.
She also shared that 10 autism units have been set up in different special education centers in Punjab. The government is providing special education facilities for children with autism. Sania Ashiq has been assigned to monitor the construction of the autism school.
Support for Special Students
The Punjab government has distributed 9,206 assistive devices to special students, including:
- 7,702 hearing aids
- 360 wheelchairs
- 300 walkers
- 344 crutches
- 500 white canes
Upgrading Special Education
Pakistan First Government Autism School
- 35 schools have been upgraded (middle to secondary and primary to middle levels).
- 28 special education schools are being improved into centers of excellence.
- A new curriculum for special students up to class 5 has been created, including the translation of the Holy Quran for hearing-impaired students.
- Skills courses are being designed for students with special needs.
- A job fair is planned in partnership with private companies, and 900 students have been registered, with 25 already employed.
- 14 students have graduated from the first Special Education Vocational Matriculation batch.
- 586 students from special education centers have joined regular schools.
- Punjab’s first Grand Sports Gala for Special Students is being planned.
Technology & Infrastructure
- A School Information System is being developed to improve special education.
- A smart monitoring app is being created for special education centers.
- Construction of eight new special schools is completed, with approval for nine more.
- A screening tool has been introduced for slow learners in special education.
Protecting Punjab’s Wetlands & Natural Habitats
On World Wetlands Day (February 2), CM Maryam Nawaz stated that protecting and restoring wetlands is a top priority under Punjab’s new climate policy. Steps being taken include:
- Construction of watchtowers and checkposts for monitoring.
- Preserving wetlands and natural habitats for research and recreation.
- Regulating the fishing industry with strict penalties for rule violations.
The government will not allow any action that harms wetlands or other natural environments.
Important Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Punjab’s first autism school expected to be completed |
| Feb 2, 2025 | World Wetlands Day – CM Maryam Nawaz highlights environmental initiatives |
| 2025 | Punjab’s first Grand Sports Gala for special students planned |