KARACHI: Provincial Minister for Universities and Boards, Mr. Ismail Rahu, inaugurated the newly established Autism Rehabilitation Centre and Pediatric Dentistry Unit at Jinnah Sindh Medical University (JSMU) on Thursday. The initiative marks a major step forward in advancing specialized healthcare and inclusive medical education in Sindh.
The inauguration ceremony also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between JSMU, the National Institute of Child Health (NICH), and C-Arts for the establishment and operation of the Autism Rehabilitation Centre.
In his address, Minister Ismail Rahu praised the efforts of JSMU and its partners, stating, “The establishment of this Autism Rehabilitation Centre and the expansion of pediatric dental services address critical gaps in our healthcare system. Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their neurological or physical challenges. The Government of Sindh fully supports such initiatives that prioritize the well-being of our future generations.”
A key highlight of the event was the expansion of the SIOH-JSMU Pediatric Dentistry Unit, which now includes six additional dental stations to enhance treatment capacity. The upgraded facility aims to deliver high-quality, child-friendly dental care in a more efficient and supportive environment for young patients and their families.
Vice Chancellor JSMU, Professor Amjad Siraj Memon, elaborated on the MoU, explaining that the Autism Rehabilitation Centre will provide free-of-cost services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The collaboration between JSMU, NICH, and C-Arts will focus on clinical services, research, training, and community outreach to improve diagnosis, rehabilitation, and social integration of children with neurodevelopmental conditions. He also announced that JSMU will construct a three-story building at NICH to house the Centre and a Psychosocial Wellness Unit.
The ceremony was attended by Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Nighat Shah, Registrar Dr. Azam Khan, Principal SMC Prof. Ambreen Usmani, Principal SIOHS Prof. Sajid Hanif, Executive Director NICH Prof. Nasir Suddle, CEO C-Arts Dr. Iram Rizwan, and senior faculty and administrative staff.
The inauguration of these facilities reflects JSMU’s continued commitment to advancing medical education, healthcare innovation, and community service—particularly in the field of child and adolescent health.
