Correspondent
Islamabad: The Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP) and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance disability inclusion, promote equal access, and establish Pakistan’s first Equal Access Hub under the NUST Disability Resource Centre.
Partnership for Inclusive Development
The MoU sets the foundation for collaboration in education, research, capacity building, and policy advocacy, ensuring the needs, rights, and leadership of persons with disabilities are placed at the heart of sustainable development initiatives.
Ms. Abia Akram, Director Programs at STEP, emphasized that the partnership will focus on disability-inclusive practices through outreach programs, training, seminars, podcasts, and collaborations with government and development bodies.
Establishment of Equal Access Hub
Dr. Rizwan Riaz, Pro-Rector (RIC) NUST, highlighted that the MoU will lead to the creation of an Equal Access Hub at NUST. The Hub will serve as a dedicated platform for advocacy, innovation, and support, with a special focus on empowering women with disabilities by addressing their unique challenges and enhancing their leadership in development.
Long-Term Commitment
The three-year agreement commits STEP and NUST to joint advocacy, awareness campaigns, and resource sharing, with a shared vision of building a more inclusive and equitable Pakistan.
Muhammad Atif Sheikh, Executive Director of STEP, described the partnership as a milestone in mainstreaming disability inclusion:
“This collaboration with NUST ensures that persons with disabilities, especially women and girls, are empowered to lead and contribute meaningfully to society.”
