In a heartening display of personal engagement, Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday inaugurated the “Maryam Nawaz Centre of Excellence for Special Education,” launching a landmark daily meal program that will benefit 45,000 children with special needs across 303 schools in the province.
The Chief Minister didn’t just cut the ribbon; she immersed herself in the world of the children, spending time hugging them, personally distributing packs of enriched milk and biscuits, and listening intently to the emotional stories of their parents, at times visibly moved.
During her tour of the new centre, she explored state-of-the-art facilities, including modern therapy rooms, smart classrooms equipped with the latest technology, and specially designed Braille libraries, emphasizing a commitment to a holistic and modern learning environment.
“This is not just a building; it is a promise we are fulfilling,” Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated. “To see the smiles on these children’s faces and to hear the resilience in their parents’ voices is both humbling and strengthening. Our mission is to ensure that every child with special needs in Punjab receives the education, care, and opportunity they truly deserve.”
The newly inaugurated centre is a flagship project in a rapidly expanding network. In a significant policy push, the provincial government has successfully established 28 such centres of excellence across various districts in under a year.
The scope of the government’s plan extends far beyond these centres. The Chief Minister announced a comprehensive province-wide upgrade for all special education institutions. This ambitious initiative includes providing students with free uniforms and dedicated transport facilities, removing key barriers to education for vulnerable families.
The launch of the daily nutrition program—providing fortified milk and biscuits—addresses a critical need, aiming to improve the health and concentration of thousands of special students, ensuring they are nourished and ready to learn.
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The move has been hailed by parents and special education advocates as a transformative step towards inclusivity and tangible support for a segment of society that has long been overlooked.