Hope Amid Challenges: A New Dawn For Special Education

Asem Mustafa Awan

Islamabad: The Special Education for Hearing and Speech Impaired Center (HIC) in Islamabad has long been a beacon of hope for deaf children, offering them education, skills, and opportunities for a brighter future.

However, financial constraints and administrative neglect have cast a shadow over its operations, leaving vulnerable students at risk of losing their only chance at equitable education.

The center faced its most pressing crisis when its transport services were halted on January 9, 2025, due to a lack of funds. This left hundreds of children unable to attend school, disrupting their academic year with annual exams looming in March.

Parents and educators, disheartened by the lack of resources, rallied under the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) to demand immediate intervention.

A meeting on January 14, chaired by PTA President Sardar Iftikhar Khan, highlighted long-standing issues, including a severe shortage of teachers—30 positions have remained vacant for over 15 years.

Amid the despair, a glimmer of hope emerged with the appointment of Madam Asna Aziz as Director of the Center. Her leadership has instilled renewed optimism, with teachers and parents expressing their support for her vision.

During the PTA meeting, participants commended the efforts of DG (SE) Captain (R) Asif Iqbal Asif, who assured stakeholders of actionable steps to address the crisis. The parents resolved to collaborate with the administration in their shared mission to improve the center’s facilities and services.

Despite these promising developments, the burden lies heavily on policymakers and decision-makers. The Prime Minister of Pakistan and other authorities must prioritize Special Education, allocating sufficient funds to ensure transport services, recruit teaching staff, and fulfill international obligations for the rights of disabled children. It is imperative to bridge the gap between promises and implementation.

These children, whose dreams are as valid as anyone else’s, rely on collective action and unwavering commitment. Their laughter, learning, and prayers bring joy to those who support them. It is time to act decisively, transforming words into tangible results.

The resilience of the Special Education community, combined with compassionate leadership, can light a path toward a future where every child, regardless of their abilities, has the opportunity to thrive.

The true measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members and these children are counting on decision makers.