LAHORE, Feb 12 (ABC): The establishment of Pakistan’s first government-run Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Center for Autism is a historic and humanitarian initiative, said Sajida Farooq Tarar, mother of Federal Minister for Information Ataullah Tarar, praising Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for her efforts toward the welfare of special children.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sajida Farooq Tarar said the chief minister had won the hearts of special children and their parents by launching the dedicated autism facility in Lahore.
She said she felt emotional after witnessing hope in the eyes of parents of autistic children. “Mothers whose children remained confined within four walls for years are now receiving state support,” she said, adding that Maryam Nawaz Sharif had truly acted like a mother in understanding and addressing their problems.
She described the autism center as more than just a building, calling it the realization of the dreams of countless families. “This institution offers support, encouragement, and a new beginning for special children,” she said, adding that such projects promote humanity, empathy, and inclusion in society.
Sajida Farooq Tarar said the chief minister’s personal interaction with children — spending time with them, coloring with them, participating in music therapy sessions, and walking hand-in-hand — reflected compassionate leadership. “Leadership grows stronger not only through decisions but through emotional connection,” she remarked.
She further appreciated the modern facilities introduced at the center, including pre-vocational training, speech therapy, art therapy, music therapy, and occupational therapy. She said these services would not only help in children’s rehabilitation but also ensure a dignified and independent future for them.
She prayed that the initiative would be accepted as a noble cause and serve as a model for establishing similar centers across the country so that no special child is left behind due to lack of resources.
