LAHORE: Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, announced provision of books to government and private institutions across the province to be produced through Braille printing (optical digit books) for visually impaired special persons in Lahore and Bahawalpur.
In her message on the World Braille Day for Visually Impaired Special Heroes, she stated that the Braille system is an effective means of providing knowledge and awareness to visually impaired people and that Braille presses equipped with modern technology are working in Punjab.
The chief minister stated that the upgraded Braille presses enable the provision of international-standard educational materials and books to special persons, with free books being distributed to government and private institutions across the province through facilities in Lahore and Bahawalpur and highlighted the enrollment of over 3,000 special children in Punjab.
Maryam stated that over 15,000 Braille books have been distributed to visually impaired students, the Holy Quran is being made available in Braille for special students, and assistive devices are being provided to address their educational needs. “More resources will be provided to special people to meet their educational needs. The Department of Special Education is being developed on modern lines by introducing fundamental reforms and special education institutions are being upgraded.”
Maryam Nawaz said, “Financial assistance is being provided through the Himmat Card to alleviate the economic challenges faced by people with disabilities.” She added, “Hearing-impaired children have been provided with assistive devices to participate in social and educational activities. Work on Pakistan’s first autism school is progressing rapidly and will be completed soon. Creating a more convenient life for our special heroes is among our top priorities.”
She further said, “Pakistan’s blind cricket team has brought immense glory to the country by winning the Blind Cricket World Cup. We are working for the rights and autonomy of people with disabilities. No child, regardless of their disability, will be deprived of any fundamental right.”
Meanwhile, she condemned the attack on government vehicles in Kurram. “The resolve of the nation cannot be weakened by the heinous acts of terrorists,” stated the Punjab Chief Minister while condemning the attack on government vehicles in Kurram and emphasised that “the entire nation stands united against terrorism”.
She offered prayers for the recovery of the injured Deputy Commissioner of Kurram, Javedullah Mehsud.
