CM calls for commitment to creating society where every child, regardless of his abilities, can dream, aspire, and achieve KARACHI Caretaker Chief Justice of Sindh Maqbool Baqar stated that the Centre for Autism Rehabilitation and Training (C-ARTS) serves as a beacon of hope and progress for children with autism, not only in Sindh but throughout South Asia. This institution has had a positive impact on the lives of many children, of which we should be proud. This he said on Thursday while speaking at a ceremony organised by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) to inaugurate three more facilities at C-ARTS, Korangi. The interim Chief Minister stated that C-ARTS is the largest centre in South Asia for children with autism. He acknowledged that this milestone is a testimony to the relentless commitment and dedication of the people behind C-ARTS, who have worked tirelessly to create an environment where children with autism can flourish and achieve their full potential. Justice Baqar praised C-ARTS for its unique mission to provide free-of-cost services to autistic children, starting from the initial stages of diagnosis to their employment. He added that this was not something commonly found in Pakistan, where resources for special needs children are often scarce. C-ARTS has set a precedent by ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the path of progress for these children. Justice Baqar also acknowledged that C-ARTS provided free transport and a stipend, recognizing the holistic needs of the children under its care. According to the Chief Minister, C-ARTS has become a central point for providing professional training to address the lack of knowledge and understanding of autism among professionals. By equipping professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge, C-ARTS is not only changing the lives of individual children but also transforming the landscape of autism awareness and support in our region. The Chief Minister stated that C-ARTS is committed to empowering parents with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively support their children. This recognition is based on the crucial role parents play in the development of their children. Furthermore, community awareness programs are being conducted to dispel any myths and misconceptions surrounding autism. The goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment for these children. Justice Baqar stated that the Center for Autism Rehabilitation and Training (C-ARTS) has experienced tremendous growth since its establishment in 2018. Initially, it had only one centre in Gulistan-e-Johar, but now it proudly operates three more centres in Korangi, Hyderabad, and Orangi Town. Currently, three new centres are in the pipeline, including Gambat, Shaheed Benazirabad, and another one in Hyderabad. These centres will provide support and resources to a total of 550 children with autism, enabling them to lead better lives. The chief minister inaugurated the first indoor sports facility that is specially designed to train exceptional children for higher levels. During the inauguration, he stated that the facility will not only promote physical well-being but also nurture the talents and abilities of these children. He emphasized that every child, irrespective of their abilities, deserves opportunities to excel and showcase their potential. Justice Baqar inaugurated a farming facility called C-ARTS and a café run by children with autism. He mentioned that these initiatives contribute to the vocational training of these remarkable individuals and showcase their capabilities and potential. He specifically highlighted that the café serves as a space where these children can exhibit their skills and talents to the community, which fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. In his speech, the CM stated that the C-ARTS project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when passion, dedication, and compassion come together. He urged everyone to celebrate the successes of C-ARTS and to renew their commitment to creating a world where every child, regardless of their abilities, can dream, aspire, and achieve. The CM also emphasized the need to build a more inclusive and compassionate society that recognizes and celebrates the unique strengths of every individual. Secretary DEPD Taha Farooqui briefed the CM about the work of his department in establishing educational, health and training centres for children with disabilities. Ms Irum Rizwan also spoke on the occasion. The Chief Minister went from class to class and interacted with the children and spent some time with them.
Irfan Ali 
