MoFEPT Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusion

ISLAMABAD: (News Desk)- The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT), through its Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE), celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) with a vibrant ceremony highlighting the rights, abilities, and aspirations of persons with disabilities. The event underscored MoFEPT’s renewed commitment to building an inclusive and accessible society.

The programme featured an array of performances by children from various special education centres in Islamabad, showcasing their remarkable talent and creativity. The ceremony opened with the national anthem in Pakistan Sign Language by deaf students of the National Special Education Center for Hearing Impaired Children. This was followed by a recitation of holy verses by visually impaired student Moazzam Ali and an engaging rendition of Qaseeda Burda Sharif by physically challenged students.

Intellectually challenged children presented energetic stage performances that earned enthusiastic applause, while visually impaired performer Master Fawad Alam captivated the audience with traditional folk instrumental music. The event concluded with a colourful cultural presentation by students from the National Training Centre for Special Persons, who appeared in traditional attire representing Pakistan’s provinces and regions.

In his welcome address, Federal Secretary Nadeem Mahbub highlighted MoFEPT’s newly developed comprehensive roadmap for special education—focusing on accessible infrastructure, modern assistive technologies, and specialized teacher training. He also shared updates on education, rehabilitation, and vocational initiatives being advanced through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partnerships.

The event was attended by Minister of State for MoFEPT, Wajiha Qamar, as Chief Guest, and Parliamentary Secretary, Farah Naz, as Guest of Honor.

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“Today is not a day about disability; it is a celebration of possibilities,” said Ms. Qamar, praising the exceptional potential of children with special needs. Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz reaffirmed the government’s pledge to inclusivity, stating, “We are dedicated to ensuring that no one is left behind. Inclusion is not just a policy—it is a moral responsibility.”

Minister of State Wajiha Qamar, Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz, and Federal Secretary Nadeem Mahbub applauded the young performers throughout the ceremony, commending their determination and resilience.

After the event, DGSE Director General Captain (R) Asif Iqbal Asif briefed the dignitaries during a tour of DGSE facilities, where they observed ongoing interventions and improvements under the Directorate’s revitalization programme. The ceremony also recognized children selected for regional games and the Special Olympics, celebrating their achievements.

MoFEPT reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to creating an accessible, inclusive, and empowering environment for all children with disabilities across Pakistan, ensuring that every child is supported and celebrated for their unique talents.