Islamabad Gets New Autism Center for Special Children

Prime Minister Lays Foundation Stone of Autism Center of Excellence

Introduction

Islamabad has taken an important step toward supporting children with special needs as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif laid the foundation stone of the Autism Center of Excellence in the federal capital. This new initiative aims to provide professional care, modern training facilities, and equal opportunities for children on the autism spectrum. The project reflects the government’s growing focus on inclusive development and social welfare for vulnerable segments of society.

Autism is a developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. In Pakistan, awareness and specialized facilities for autism have remained limited for years. The establishment of this center marks a positive change and offers hope to thousands of families seeking proper guidance and support for their children.

What Is the Autism Center of Excellence?

The Autism Center of Excellence Islamabad is designed as a modern and specialized facility that will focus on the overall development of children with autism. The center will offer structured learning programs, therapy services, and professional support under one roof.

According to officials, the facility will be equipped with trained staff, modern tools, and a child-friendly environment. Its goal is not only treatment but also skill development, confidence building, and social integration of autistic children into mainstream society.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Vision for Special Children

While addressing the foundation-laying ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that special children are the responsibility of the entire nation. He highlighted that with proper care, guidance, and training, children with autism can achieve remarkable success.

The prime minister shared inspiring examples of special children who have excelled in music and creative fields, showing that talent exists everywhere when opportunities are provided. He stressed that society must shift from sympathy to empowerment by creating platforms that nurture abilities rather than focusing on limitations.

Faster Completion Timeline Announced

One of the most significant announcements made during the ceremony was the revised completion timeline for the project. Initially planned to be completed in two years, the prime minister directed authorities to finish the Autism Center of Excellence within one year.

This decision aims to ensure that families in need can access services as soon as possible. Faster completion will allow early intervention for children, which is critical in autism care and developmental progress.

Government Support: 15 Vehicles for Daily Operations

To ensure smooth functioning after completion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the provision of 15 vehicles for the Autism Center of Excellence. These vehicles will help in daily operations, transportation of children, staff mobility, and outreach activities.

This logistical support highlights the government’s commitment to making the center functional, accessible, and efficient rather than limiting the initiative to infrastructure alone.

Why Autism Support Centers Are Important in Pakistan

Pakistan has a large youth population, and thousands of children are estimated to be on the autism spectrum. Unfortunately, lack of awareness, social stigma, and limited facilities have made life challenging for these children and their families.

Dedicated autism centers help by:

• Providing early diagnosis and intervention
• Offering speech, behavioral, and occupational therapy
• Training parents and caregivers
• Helping children develop communication and social skills

The Islamabad Autism Center of Excellence is expected to serve as a model facility that could inspire similar projects across other cities.

Equal Opportunities for Children on the Autism Spectrum

A key objective of the new autism center is to ensure equal opportunities for special children. This includes access to education, creative activities, and skill-based training tailored to individual needs.

Rather than isolating autistic children, the center aims to prepare them for inclusion in schools, workplaces, and social environments. This approach aligns with international best practices where inclusion is considered essential for long-term development.

Professional Training and Skilled Staff

The success of any autism center depends on the quality of its professionals. Officials revealed that the center will employ trained therapists, psychologists, special educators, and support staff.

These professionals will work closely with children and parents to create personalized development plans. Continuous training and evaluation will ensure that global standards of autism care are followed.

Prime Minister’s Message on Collective Responsibility

During his speech, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered a strong message about social responsibility. He said that anyone who contributes to the training and development of special children will be rewarded both in this world and the hereafter.

He praised individuals, organizations, and institutions involved in the project and urged society to support similar initiatives. According to him, national progress is incomplete if vulnerable groups are left behind.

Interaction with Children and Project Briefing

Before the ceremony concluded, the prime minister was briefed on the project’s progress by officials. He also met children currently enrolled at the center and interacted with them warmly.

This interaction highlighted the human side of the initiative and reinforced the government’s intention to keep children at the heart of policy decisions rather than treating the project as a symbolic gesture.

How This Center Will Benefit Families

Families of autistic children often face emotional, financial, and social challenges. The Autism Center of Excellence in Islamabad is expected to provide relief by offering a centralized and reliable support system.

Key benefits for families include:

• Access to expert guidance under one roof
• Reduced financial burden through public support
• Emotional support and counseling
• Community awareness and reduced stigma

Setting an Example for Other Provinces

Experts believe that this project can become a blueprint for autism care across Pakistan. If successfully implemented, similar centers could be established in major cities such as Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta.

This would help create a national network of autism support services and significantly improve the quality of life for special children nationwide.

Public Reaction and Social Impact

The announcement of the Autism Center of Excellence has been widely welcomed by parents, educators, and social activists. Many have praised the government for recognizing autism as a serious public health and social issue.

On social media, users highlighted the need for awareness campaigns, teacher training, and inclusive education policies alongside infrastructure development.

Challenges That Need Continuous Attention

While the initiative is promising, experts stress that long-term success will depend on:

• Consistent funding
• Transparent management
• Qualified staff retention
• Nationwide awareness programs

Without sustained effort, even well-intentioned projects can struggle. Therefore, monitoring and evaluation will be key.

Conclusion

The foundation of the Autism Center of Excellence in Islamabad marks a meaningful step toward inclusive development in Pakistan. By prioritizing faster completion, providing operational support, and emphasizing equal opportunities, the government has shown a strong commitment to children with special needs.

If implemented effectively, this center can change lives, empower families, and reshape public perception of autism. It also sends a clear message that progress is measured not just by economic growth, but by how a society cares for its most vulnerable members.

Islamabad Gets New Autism Center – Key FAQs Explained