5,000 Children Enroll in First Autism School

Key Developments in Punjab's Special Education Sector

Punishing the progress in special education, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif held a significant meeting on Friday to discuss the advancements and future plans for the sector. The meeting highlighted several important developments, including the remarkable enrollment of over 5,000 special children at the Maryam Nawaz Autism School within a short time frame.

This achievement marks a historic milestone for Punjab, as it is the first time such a large number of special children have been enrolled in a dedicated institution. The chief minister commended Special Assistant Sania Ashiq and her team for their outstanding efforts in launching and expanding the school. She also announced that underprivileged children would receive free therapy and education at the school, and gave approval for the inclusion of special children in the 'Himmat' Card program.

To further improve the quality of services, the Punjab government has decided to engage world-class autism experts. This initiative aims to enhance the standards of education and therapy provided at the school.

Infrastructure and Program Enhancements

The meeting also approved several infrastructure-related initiatives. These include the procurement of 48 new buses, the design of new uniforms, and the development of model school layouts for students, teachers, and staff. These improvements are intended to create a more conducive environment for learning and teaching.

Maryam Nawaz established a 13-member Board of Governors and approved a three-year strategic plan for the Autism Resource Center. This step is expected to ensure long-term planning and sustainable growth for the center.

Innovative Educational Model

During the briefing, Sania Ashiq shared details about the educational model used at the Maryam Nawaz Autism School. The curriculum is based on a customized, evidence-based approach developed after extensive research into successful international models. It integrates communication and language skills, life skills, Islamic and moral education, technology, physical education, and social studies under a 'functional green' learning framework.

The school will feature modern facilities, including an open gym, walking track, sensory garden, and sound therapy centers. Children aged 3 to 16 years will be admitted, with continued education and therapy available up to age 22 at the Autism School and Research Center.

Hybrid Therapy and Parental Involvement

A hybrid therapy model in both Urdu and English has been developed, along with parent coaching modules to strengthen coordination between families and school management. To ensure student safety and performance monitoring, CCTV cameras will be installed, while Children Welfare Officers will oversee welfare and progress.

Sania Ashiq added that the school will include a Research and Teacher Training Division to prepare master trainers and enhance professional capacity in the field of special education. Diploma and certificate programs are also planned to promote research and innovation in autism education and therapy in Pakistan.

Future Plans and Commitment

The establishment of the Maryam Nawaz Autism School represents a significant step forward in providing quality education and therapy for children with autism in Punjab. The school's comprehensive approach, combined with its innovative facilities and programs, is set to make a lasting impact on the lives of special children and their families.

With the support of the Punjab government and the commitment of the team led by Sania Ashiq, the school is poised to become a model institution for special education in the region. The focus on research, training, and community involvement ensures that the school will continue to evolve and meet the needs of its students effectively.