Last Sunday, France bade farewell to the Paralympic Games 2024 in a spectacular closing ceremony, a celebration of resilience and triumph. For Pakistan, the event held special significance as its sole para-athlete, Haider Ali, brought home a bronze medal in the Men’s Discus Throw F37 event, with a remarkable throw of 52.54 meters on his final attempt. Haider Ali’s journey is one of extraordinary determination and perseverance. The 39-year-old athlete, born with cerebral palsy, has never allowed his condition to define his limits. With his latest bronze medal, Haider now boasts an impressive tally of four Paralympic medals, including one gold, one silver, and two bronze, over five Paralympic appearances since 2008. Yet, amid the celebration of Haider’s success, it is crucial to turn our focus toward the thousands of others in Pakistan with functional limitations, who remain overlooked and under-supported.
According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), at least seven million people in the country have functional limitations. Many of these individuals have the potential to achieve greatness on the world stage, just as Haider Ali has, but they are stifled by a lack of resources, training opportunities, and societal support. Schools across the country seldom offer therapy or specialized educational services for students with physical disabilities, leaving many capable children confined to their homes. Haider Ali’s remarkable success should serve as a wake-up call for Pakistan’s policymakers, urging them to create a more inclusive environment for individuals with functional limitations. Too often, Pakistan relies on private organizations and the goodwill of NGOs to fill the gaps in support for people with disabilities. This approach leads to a stark inequality, where children from affluent families have access to resources and training, while others are left behind.
Events like the Paralympics offer a glimpse into how other nations are tackling these challenges. Many countries have made significant strides in creating inclusive policies and infrastructure, enabling their citizens to live with dignity and contribute to society regardless of their physical limitations. Pakistan, however, remains trapped in political distractions, failing to prioritize the needs of its most vulnerable citizens. While officials lament the lack of foreign aid and international support, they ignore opportunities to diversify and launch meaningful projects that could truly change lives. Why not partner with countries and international organizations to develop initiatives that focus on the education and training of children with disabilities? The Paralympic Games are more than just a sporting event; they are a platform for individuals who have often felt marginalized or overlooked. They provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to showcase their abilities, proving that they can excel just as much as their able-bodied counterparts. Haider Ali’s success on this global stage is proof that Pakistan, too, has the talent to shine, but it is also a reminder of the work that remains to be done.