Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has declared that the provincial government is dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of deafblind individuals. In a statement issued on the International Day of Deafblindness, she emphasized that these citizens are neither a burden nor incapable, but rather embody courage, resilience, and self-reliance.
Government’s Commitment to Rights and Dignity
The chief minister asserted that supporting, encouraging, and empowering deafblind persons is a collective societal responsibility. She clarified that rehabilitating persons with disabilities is not an act of charity but a fundamental right. The Punjab government, she said, is providing dignified financial assistance through the Himmat Card programme, which extends to deafblind and other persons with disabilities.
Assistive Devices and Inclusive Participation
According to CM Maryam Nawaz, the government is also distributing assistive devices to deafblind and other special persons. These devices are intended to enable them to participate in all walks of life with dignity and independence. The initiative aims to remove barriers and foster an inclusive environment where every individual can contribute meaningfully.
Upgrading Special Education Institutions
The chief minister announced that special education institutions under the Special Education Department are being upgraded into Centres of Excellence. This transformation will improve educational and rehabilitation services for students with disabilities. Modern educational opportunities are being provided to all children with disabilities, including those who are deafblind, ensuring they receive quality education tailored to their needs.
Broader Context and Impact
The International Day of Deafblindness, observed annually, highlights the challenges faced by individuals with combined hearing and vision loss. Maryam Nawaz’s message underscores the Punjab government's ongoing efforts to address these challenges through policy and programme implementation. The Himmat Card programme, in particular, has been a flagship initiative providing financial support to thousands of disabled persons across the province.
