Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi Saturday marked the International Day of Disabled Persons by attending a local hotel event and officially inaugurating the "Enabled" web portal developed by the social welfare department, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Expressing deep empathy for differently-abled individuals, Chief Minister Naqvi personally invited a disabled girl, who reached out via WhatsApp, to join the ceremony. Touched by the invitation, he affirmed his commitment, stating, "I will definitely go to this girl's institution."
The chief minister's compassion extended beyond words as he personally visited an enabled child engrossed in painting during the ceremony. He not only congratulated the child but also bestowed an award, recognizing the talent and creativity of differently-abled children.
In a significant move, Chief Minister Naqvi declared a shift in language use, urging the term "enable persons" instead of "disabled." He emphasized the need for immediate action, directing the Social Welfare Department to prepare a plan for the upgrade of institutions catering to differently-abled children within seven days.
Highlighting administrative changes, Naqvi addressed the issue of delayed budget releases for special education institutions. He announced the direct transfer of funds to the special education sector, ensuring timely allocation for the education and training of children in these institutions.
Furthermore, the chief minister outlined plans to organize technical and vocational courses for disabled individuals above 18 years old. Collaborating with Toyota, this initiative aims to equip them with skills for entrepreneurship and self-sustainability.
Acknowledging the efforts of Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Provincial Minister Specialized Healthcare and Special Education Dr. Javed Akram also addressed the ceremony. Additionally, a state-of-the-art center for disabled children is in the works, with land acquisition already underway in the township.
The event saw widespread participation, with Secretary Social Welfare, Secretary Information, DG Social Welfare, renowned motivational speaker Qasim Ali Shah, and a large number of disabled children in attendance. Chief Minister Naqvi's commitment to transformative change for differently-abled individuals resonates as a significant stride towards inclusivity and empowerment.