Upgradation of autism resource centre ordered

Islamabad: Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar took a detailed briefing on the Autism Resource Centre (ARC) at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children with Developmental Disorder, under the Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE).

An ARC team briefed the minister on the centre's current operations, which originated as a pilot project launched in 2014-15. They, however, said due to certain limitations, the centre could not be expanded into a full-scale autism resource facility.

Minister Qamar said that a comprehensive project should be developed to upgrade the Autism Resource Centre, which was currently under the management of Pakistan Baitul Mal. She emphasised that the project should include modifications to the building, while focusing on enhancing human resources through recruitment and development.

The minister said the project would also incorporate assistive technologies and modern interventions, aligning with international best practices, and integrating artificial intelligence. She said the project include the establishment of Autism Resource Sub-Centres in federal government schools and colleges at the sector level, aimed at building the capacity of teachers within the Federal Directorate of Education. The minister said the initiative would further strengthen the educational support system for children with autism and developmental disorders. Officials said the move was expected to enhance the quality of special education services in the country and improve resources for teachers and students alike.