Minister launches Autism, Pediatric Care Units at JSMU

Says Sindh govt committed to inclusive healthcare for children province-wide

KARACHI:

Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards Muhammad Ismail Rahu on Thursday inaugurated an Autism Rehabilitation Centre and a specialised Pediatric Dentistry Unit at the Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU), terming the development a milestone in strengthening specialised healthcare for children across the province.

The ceremony also marked the signing of a MoU between JSMU, the National Institute of Child Health (NICH), and the Centre for Autism Rehabilitation and Training Sindh (C-ARTS) to formalise collaboration for the establishment and operation of the new Autism Centre.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Rahu praised JSMU's efforts, saying the initiative addressed a vital gap in the healthcare system.

"The establishment of an Autism Rehabilitation Centre and the expansion of pediatric dental care fill a crucial gap in our healthcare system. Every child deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy and fulfilling life, regardless of neurological or physical challenges," he said. "The Sindh government fully supports projects that prioritize the well-being of our future generations."

A key feature of the inauguration was the expansion of the SIOHS-JSMU Pediatric Dentistry Unit, now equipped with six new dental stations to offer advanced and child-friendly dental treatment. The upgraded facility is designed to enhance service delivery and provide a more comfortable care environment for young patients and their families.

JSMU VC Prof Amjad Siraj said that under the tripartite agreement, JSMU, NICH, and C-ARTS would jointly establish a free-of-cost rehabilitation centre for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).