Karachi: The Sindh government has rejected Punjab’s recent assertion regarding the establishment of Pakistan’s first-ever government-funded school for autistic children. Sindh’s Senior Minister for Information, Sharjeel Inam Memon, strongly opposed the claim, emphasizing that Sindh had already taken the lead in this sector years ago.
Memon pointed out that Sindh had inaugurated the country’s first government-funded autism rehabilitation center in Karachi in 2018. He further elaborated that, at present, six such centers are fully operational across the province, providing essential support, therapy, and education for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Expressing disappointment over Punjab’s announcement, Memon stated that historical accuracy should be maintained when highlighting achievements. He urged the Punjab government to promote its initiatives without distorting facts or undermining the contributions made by other provinces.
The Sindh government has consistently invested in special education and rehabilitation services, ensuring that children with disabilities receive quality care and resources. The initiative in Karachi, launched in 2018, was a landmark achievement in special education, setting a precedent for other provinces to follow.
With both provinces striving to improve facilities for children with autism, stakeholders in the education and healthcare sectors emphasize the need for collaboration rather than competition in addressing the needs of children with special needs across Pakistan