First autism residential centre inaugurated

Facility to serve 250 children; CM announces inclusive parks in metropolis

First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari on Monday inaugurated Pakistan's first specialised residential centre for children with autism in Korangi, established under the Centre for Autism Rehabilitation and Training, Sindh (C-ARTS).

The facility, a first of its kind in the country, will provide long-term, comprehensive care to children with autism and support to their families. Officials said the centre will cater to around 250 children through a multidisciplinary team trained in evidence-based intervention programmes.

Addressing the ceremony, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah termed the project a "symbol of hope, inclusion and dignity," reiterating the government's commitment to ensuring access to quality diagnosis, education, rehabilitation and life skills training for children with autism.

"This is not merely the opening of a building but the beginning of new opportunities for children and their families," he said, adding that the centre would offer a safe environment where children can develop their abilities and gain independence.

The residential facility will provide healthcare, education, behavioural support, vocational training and life skills development under one roof. It will also offer short-term professional care for children with severe behavioural challenges and long-term residential care for those without adequate family support.

C-ARTS CEO Irum Rizwan briefed attendees on the centre's services and future expansion plans. The event was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic community, experts, parents and civil society representatives.

Highlighting the province's wider efforts, CM Shah said 10 C-ARTS centres are already operational across Sindh, serving more than 1,500 children and their families with free services.

He added that 13 more units are under construction or near completion in Karachi and other districts, and several would soon become functional.

CM Shah also announced plans to establish inclusive parks in Landhi, Malir, North Nazimabad and Bahria Town, subject to land availability. These parks will feature adaptive play equipment and sensory-friendly spaces for children of all abilities.

"Inclusion must go beyond policy documents and be visible in our schools, workplaces and public spaces," he said, adding that such parks would promote empathy and social integration.

The chief minister said Sindh has also signed agreements with Balochistan and the Islamabad Capital Territory to support the establishment of similar autism centres.

Interacting with children at the event, Aseefa said they are "valuable and capable members of society," stressing that autism does not define a child's potential.

Officials described the facility as a major step towards building an integrated model of autism care in Pakistan, combining diagnosis, rehabilitation, education and residential support within a single institution.

The chief minister said that the centre represents "hope for children, reassurance for parents and progress for society."