Lahore: The Special Education Society, Civil Services Academy, on Friday organised an event at the Jinnah Auditorium to promote awareness, inclusion, and support for persons with disabilities.
The event was graced by chief guest Farhan Aziz Khawaja, Director General, Civil Services Academy, along with Bilal Akram Butt, Director Administration and Finance, Civil Services Academy. The guest of honour was Shaista Pervaiz Malik, MNA and CEO, LABARD. Other distinguished guests included Iram Anjum, Principal, Kinnaird College, Lahore, and Samya Mustansar, Resource Person, Special Education Society, and Additional Director Finance, Civil Services Academy.
The event commenced with a powerful Theatrical Performance on Down syndrome, sensitively portraying the importance of empathy, acceptance, and equal opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome.
Another key highlight was the launch of the ‘Humnawa App’, developed in collaboration with the Punjab Safe Cities Authority Tech Team. The application aims to connect volunteer writers with visually impaired students, enabling them to receive writing assistance during examinations.
The event also featured a ‘Bake Sale in collaboration with LABARD’, showcasing handmade crafts and baked products prepared by specially-abled children. The stalls received an enthusiastic response from probationary officers and distinguished guests.
During the event, Bilal Akram Butt appreciated the launch of the Humnawa App, stating, ‘Humnawa is a remarkable initiative that reflects the true spirit of public service. By connecting volunteers with visually impaired students, it demonstrates how technology can be used to remove barriers and create equal educational opportunities.’ In her address, Shaista Pervaiz Malik remarked, ‘We have overlooked blindness in our programme at LABARD, but we are looking forward to working on it,’ acknowledging the need for greater focus on visual impairment in future initiatives. She appreciated the efforts of the Special Education Society in promoting awareness and inclusion.
The programme concluded with an inspiring message by Samya Mustansar, stressing the importance of inclusive education, equal opportunities, and collective responsibility in building a more compassionate and accessible society. Her remarks were highly appreciated by the audience.