(INDIA) Punjab: First autism school to open; schools adding "autism centers"

April 4, 2025, Academia Mag: Punjab’s First Autism School Nears Completion 

On the eve of World Autism Awareness Day, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif shared heartfelt Eid greetings with children affected by autism and reinforced her government’s dedication to their education, training, and rehabilitation.

“Children with autism are not patients—they are special individuals,” said CM Maryam. “For the first time in Punjab, special education has been made a top priority. We are launching employment programs and introducing the Rising Star Card to empower these children.”

Highlighting key initiatives, she announced that Pakistan’s first government-run autism school in Lahore is nearing completion. The facility will offer early autism diagnosis, crucial for effective treatment, especially when detected as early as three years of age.

In a festive gesture, 40,000 special children across Punjab received Eid gift packs.

Additionally:✔ 12 autism units established in special education centers✔ 27 divisional public schools now have autism centers✔ Packed meal program launched for special children✔ Digital touch screens installed in District Special Education Centres of Excellence✔ Special Education Information System & Helpline (1162) operational✔ Mobile app introduced for accessibility

Further upgrades include:🔹 28 special education schools being transformed into Centres of Excellence🔹 New syllabus designed for children with intellectual disabilities🔹 3,450 CCTV cameras installed for student safety, with more to come in schools and buses

“For the first time, Punjab has ring-fenced the Special Education budget,” CM Maryam emphasized. “We are committed to transforming the lives of children with autism and ensuring they get the opportunities they deserve.”