The symposium opened with a welcome address by Director General Special Education, Capt. (R) Asif Iqbal Asif, who briefed the audience on various initiatives being undertaken as part of a revamping drive across special education service delivery centers in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).

The event was graced by Ms. Wajiha Qamar, Minister of State for the Ministry of Federal Education & Professional Training, as the Chief Guest. In her presidential address, she reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to the welfare of persons with disabilities, especially children. She praised the inspiring performances by special children, including those with autism, enrolled in the Autism Resource Centre at RCCDD, Islamabad.

Federal Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, attended as Special Guest, underscoring his personal commitment to supporting children with special needs. He announced the establishment of four tech-labs in special education centers to facilitate skill development and training. In collaboration with NUST University, software engineers will serve as tech-fellows, introducing children with special needs to software technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Additionally, he revealed plans for an exclusive sports arena for persons with disabilities in ICT.

The symposium featured distinguished national and international rehabilitation experts. Keynote speaker Prof. Dr. Hashim Raza, Consultant in Developmental Paediatrics, Cambridge Community NHS Trust, and former Consultant at PIMS, delivered an insightful presentation on various aspects of ASD.

Ms. Merry Barua, Founder Director of Action for Autism and a noted activist and consultant from India, joined the symposium via video conferencing to share her expertise and advocacy experience. Other prominent speakers included Dr. Sadaf Noveen, Senior Speech Therapist at NIRM Islamabad, and Mrs. Khalida Ahmad, Educational Psychologist, Islamabad, both of whom presented research and practical approaches for supporting individuals with autism.

A heartfelt session featuring reflections from parents of children with autism and success stories shared on stage served as a powerful source of motivation for all attendees.

The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment to foster a society where every individual, regardless of ability, has access to opportunities to reach their full potential. The Directorate General of Special Education reaffirmed its resolve to continue working towards a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive environment for all citizens.