Turning up the heat on 'special schools'

Amid persistent heat waves, prolonged power outages and soaring temperatures across Sindh, teachers and physiotherapists working under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) have expressed strong reservations over the cancellation of summer vacations, warning that the decision could endanger both staff and children with disabilities.

Controversy erupted after the department directed teachers, therapists and rehabilitation professionals to continue regular classes during the summer break, a move that has drawn criticism from employees who say most institutions lack basic facilities to cope with the intense heat.

"Neither are there air-conditioners in our classrooms nor any power backup facilities during outages," a teacher posted in Jamshoro, requesting anonymity, told The Express Tribune.

The directive was issued through a circular dated June 2 by DEPD Section Officer Ashfaq Ahmed Jokhio, who instructed teachers, therapists and rehabilitation professionals to remain engaged during the vacation period.

Jokhio stated that it had been observed that the relevant staff were not adhering to the department's policy of "mandatory engagement" during summer and winter vacations. "...whereas the rehabilitation process of special child will affect by long 70 days gap," the circular noted, referring to the combined duration of summer and winter vacations.

The section officer also cited an earlier communication issued on May 22, through which regional directors had been instructed to immediately cancel summer vacations for the staff concerned.

The circular warned that employees who failed to comply could face disciplinary measures, including the withdrawal of allowances. It further cautioned that personnel serving on deputation could be repatriated to their parent departments.

However, staff members argue that while uninterrupted rehabilitation may appear beneficial on paper, the decision overlooks the physical risks posed by extreme weather conditions.

"These instructions may sound beneficial to the children, but they completely ignore the health implications of exposing them to soaring summer temperatures," said another employee, also speaking on condition of anonymity. He pointed out that summer vacations are observed nationwide - from primary schools to universities - because educational authorities acknowledge the dangers associated with exposing students to extreme heat. "If extreme heat is considered unsafe for mainstream students, why should children with disabilities be considered immune to the same risks?" he asked. A therapist associated with the department echoed these concerns, noting that children with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, hearing and visual impairments, cerebral palsy, developmental delays and multiple disabilities are among the most vulnerable segments of society.