On World Children’s Day eve, Sindh Chief Minister
Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the UJALA Centre
a facility supporting children with autism
Staff Reporter
Karachi: On World Children’s Day eve, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited the UJALA Centre, a facility supporting children with autism and disabilities, and announced the development of UJALA-II in partnership with the Department of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD). The new facility will be established in Defence Phase-8.
The Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “An inclusive Sindh is a prosperous Sindh. Every child deserves equal opportunities to thrive.”
UJALA-II Project: A Step Toward Inclusive Education
During the visit, CM Murad Ali Shah was briefed on the UJALA-II C-ARTS DEPD project, which aims to provide specialized educational and therapeutic services for children with autism and related conditions.
The UJALA-II facility will span 400 square yards and be completed within two years, as per the CM’s directive to expedite the timeline. The initiative, led by Mr. Yakoob Zakria in collaboration with the provincial government, was lauded by the CM as a crucial step in creating a nurturing environment for children with disabilities.
Dedicated Park for Children with Disabilities
Responding to parents’ concerns about limited recreational spaces, the CM instructed Mayor Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, to allocate a separate park for children with disabilities in Clifton Block-5. The park will feature wheelchair-accessible pathways, sensory play areas, and other amenities tailored for children with physical and developmental challenges.
“The Sindh Government is committed to providing facilities where children with special needs feel included, empowered, and supported,” said the CM.
Addressing Parental Concerns
Parents of children with autism shared grievances about societal stigma, limited resources, and their children being excluded from schools. The CM directed Secretary DEPD Taha Farooqi to resolve these issues and keep him updated.
Inclusive City Project
The CM also discussed the Sindh Government’s upcoming Inclusive City project, which aims to transform urban areas into accessible and inclusive spaces. The initiative focuses on public infrastructure, improved transportation, and raising awareness about diversity and inclusion.
The visit concluded with a strong commitment to addressing the challenges faced by children with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive society.
