KARACHI: Dr. Zahid Hasan Ansari, Convener of the National Standing Committee on Medical and Health Sciences at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and Member of the Provincial Advisory Council, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD), Government of Sindh, organized an awareness seminar on Inclusive Education and Autism Management.
The seminar brought together medical experts, education professionals, government officials, NGOs, and philanthropists to promote awareness about autism, inclusive education, and the importance of early diagnosis and effective management.
The keynote speakers included Ms. Irum Rizwan, Chief Autism Consultant at C-ARTS, Head of Autism Services at IPM&R and Assistant Professor; Mrs. Alliya Batool Haidery, CEO of Pakistan Centre for Autism (PCA); Dr. Atif Saeed Anjum, Pediatric Neurologist, Neuropsychologist, Special Educator and Rehabilitation Counsellor; Mr. Mansoor Hassan Shaikh, Director Inclusive Education, DEPD, Government of Sindh; Mr. Razzak Pardesi, Chairman of IHRI; and Mrs. Afia Wajahat, CEO of IHRI.
The chief guest, Barrister Hallar Wassan, MPA and Parliamentary Secretary for Food, Government of Sindh, appreciated the efforts of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities and assured the provincial government's full support for initiatives promoting inclusive education and autism awareness.
During the seminar, speakers emphasized the need for teacher training, greater public awareness, early diagnosis, and improved management of autism spectrum disorders. They also shared expert insights on prevention, diagnosis, rehabilitation, and support services for children with autism.
The event was attended by members of FPCCI Standing Committees, doctors, medical experts, industrialists, NGOs, philanthropists, and healthcare professionals, who highlighted the importance of continued awareness campaigns and collaborative efforts to support individuals with autism and their families.
Shields and bouquets were presented to the chief guest and keynote speakers, while distinguished philanthropists were also recognized for their valuable contributions to public health and community welfare.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Zahid Hasan Ansari thanked all speakers, participants, and attendees for their support in making the seminar a success. He reaffirmed FPCCI's commitment to supporting national health initiatives and promoting awareness of developmental disorders and inclusive healthcare across Pakistan.
