First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the Centre for Autism Rehabilitation and Training (C-ARTS) in Karachi on Monday and inaugurated its newly-established residential facility.
They were received by Secretary DEPD Taha Farooqui, C-ARTS CEO Iram Rizwan and other officials, who briefed them on the centre’s facilities and services.
According to the briefing, C-ARTS Residential is Pakistan’s first dedicated residential facility for people with autism. The center will provide safe and quality accommodation, care, training and rehabilitation for children with autism and has the capacity to cater to around 250 children.
The facility includes respite care for children with severe behavioral needs, providing parents and caregivers temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities. A long-term residential care facility will also be available for autistic children who do not have guardians or caregivers.
The center will be operated by a multidisciplinary team of trained professionals specializing in autism-related programs, with a focus on providing comprehensive and round-the-clock support.
During the visit, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also inaugurated the C-ARTS portal, which will make information and services related to autism more accessible.
Speaking on the occasion, Aseefa Bhutto said empowering persons with disabilities is a hallmark of a civilized and responsible society. She stressed that providing children with autism access to education, training and equal opportunities is a shared responsibility.
She said every child with special needs deserves attention, care and opportunities to reach their full potential. “An inclusive society is one where no one is left behind,” she said, adding that children with autism possess exceptional abilities and should be provided with opportunities to develop their skills.
The first lady said the Sindh government would further strengthen efforts to support children with special needs and their families.
CM Murad reaffirmed the Sindh government’s commitment to using all available resources for the rehabilitation and welfare of people with autism and other special needs.
The chief minister said making persons with disabilities active and respected members of society remain a priority for the Sindh government. He described C-ARTS as an important institution that is bringing positive change to the lives of children with special needs.
He said the center represents a model for promoting inclusive education and rehabilitation in Sindh, adding that the Pakistan People’s Party government would continue strengthening the special education and rehabilitation sectors.
During the visit, Aseefa Bhutto and Murad Ali Shah also interacted with children with autism and appreciated their abilities and achievements. Parents, experts and children shared their experiences and achievements with the visiting officials.
