International Day for People with Disability 

Lahore, January 05, 2022 (PPI-OT):The word “disability” is not respectable and should be excluded from the dictionary because disabled persons perform the same as able ones. It was said in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) workshop, University of Central Punjab.

Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), in collaboration with the Centre for Special Needs (CSNs): A Project of Khidmat ul Nisa Welfare Society celebrated International Day of People with Disability on 18th December 2021 at the University of Central Punjab, Lahore. The event was organized by Muhammad Farooq (Faculty Industry Liaison Officer, FASS) and Ms. Syeda Ayesha (Lecturer, Department of Psychology).

The day was observed to celebrate the abilities of people with special abilities. The purpose of the event was to raise awareness among different stakeholders by reinforcing the importance of securing the rights of people with special abilities to participate fully, equally, and effectively in society.

The event’s glory was highlighted by exceptional performances of children with special abilities. This event demonstrated that when children with special abilities are empowered, they can perform as well as any other child. Honourable guests from all fields of life showed up to express solidarity with those with special abilities.

Samina Mir, CEO of Khidmat ul Nisa Welfare Society, shared her organization’s philosophy and journey. Dr. Izhar Ul Haq Hashmi (Director Punjab Welfare Trust for the Disabled) expresses his feelings that today he is out of words to comment about the special children’s performances and the working of the Center for Special Needs. He appreciated the spirit of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS), the University of Central Punjab (UCP), in hosting such events. Ms. Mussarat Misbah (Founder of Deplix and SMILE foundation) extends her organization’s cooperation for CSNs. Dr. Noor-ul-Zaman from Rotary Club offered free medical camps for students with special abilities.

Dr. Imran Murtaza (MS, Fountain House) applauded the efforts and contribution of UCP and CSNs, and he said that fountain house and Akhuwat foundation doors are always open for the betterment of people with special abilities. Col.(R) Masood ul Haq (CEO National School) expressed his wishes and presented a cheque to Ms. Samina Mir for persons with special abilities. Ms. Khawar Sultana (Director, Inclusive Education Programme, Amin Maktab) said that we have to put more organized efforts for inclusive education for a person with special abilities. Ms. Samreen Tariq (Principal, Beaconhouse School System) noted that the word “Disable” should be excluded from the English Dictionaries.

Mr. Muhammad Farooq (FILO-FASS) and Ms. Ayesha Sheeraz (Lecturer, Department of Psychology) from UCP appreciated the efforts and offered support to the Center for Special Needs to bring positive change in the lives of special children, their families, and the community at large. Mr. Farooq shared that people with special abilities should be treated with more respect and care, and it’s the right time to invest more in them because they bring achievements for Pakistan in Olympics and many other international events.

Syeda Ayesha concludes the ceremony, acknowledged the efforts of Center of Special Needs, and pays thanks to all guests on behalf of Dean, FASS, and UCP for making the event a success. She added that the performances of the special childrens glorified the event.

Ms. Samina Mir (CEO- Khidmat ul Nisa welfare Society) extended her gratitude to Prof. Dr. Nasar Ikram (Honourable Prorector), Dr. Fehmida Sultana (Dean of FASS); Dr. Athar Mansoor (Director ORIC); Dr. Shazia Hassan (HoD, Department of Psychology), Mr. Mohammad Farooq (FILO-FASS), Syeda Ayesha (Lecturer, Department of Psychology), Administration of the UCP, Security Management team, IT team, and auditorium team for making the event successful.

The shield was presented to Dr. Fehmida Sultana- Dean, FASS, which Ms. Syeda Ayesha and Mr. Muhammad Farooq received on behalf of the Dean. The other dignities who attend the event and express their ideas are Dr. Anis ur Rehman (Special Olympian), Ms. Rehana Mahood: Vice President KNWS, Ms. Seemal Farooq, Dr. Zaffar Iqbal (CEO Global Institute for Autism and Special Needs), Dr. Muhammad Hashim (CEO, Physiogenic and Physiotherapy clinic).

For more information, contact:
University of Central Punjab (UCP)
Khayaban-e-Jinnah Road, Johar Town, Lahore, Pakistan
Phone: +92-42-35880007
Fax: +92-42-35954892
Email: info@ucp.edu.pk
Website: https://www.ucp.edu.pk/