“Society’s advancement is gauged not merely by economic metrics, but by its equity toward all members,” Murad Shah

International Day PWD: Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress
KARACHI (Dec 3): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, observing the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with great enthusiasm, cut a cake with Persons with Disabilities and virtually inaugurated C-Arts in Larkano, as well as the Dr Ruth Pfau MALC-DEPD centres in Larkano and Badin.

The event, organised by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) led by Secretary Tauha Farooqui, at Al-noor Park, Clifton, highlighted the Sindh government’s dedication to transforming global calls for social progress—such as those voiced at the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha—into tangible local actions. The event was attended by provincial ministers, advisors, special assistants, spokespersons, provincial secretaries, and civil society members in large numbers.

The speaker delivered a powerful address on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, pledging a future where all citizens have the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive province.

Chief Minister Murad Shah’s address reflected the United Nations theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” and emphasised that development should be measured not only by economics but also by compassion and equality.

Mr Shah stated, “A society’s advancement is gauged not merely by economic metrics, but by its compassion and equity toward all members, who must enjoy equal chances to engage, innovate, and excel. We gather with great purpose to reaffirm our shared resolve to forge a just, inclusive, and barrier-free society for every citizen.”

The speech outlined strategic efforts beyond policy, focusing on infrastructure:

The DEPD has been significantly strengthened, distributing essential assistive devices – such as wheelchairs, tricycles, and hearing aids – in Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkano, and Shaheed Benazirabad.

The CM recalled that a major achievement was the recent opening of Pakistan’s largest Centre of Excellence for Disability Inclusion in Korangi. This 34,000-square-foot facility serves as a hub for vocational training in IT, textiles, and culinary arts, and offers rehabilitation services and wheelchair manufacturing.

Murad Shah also announced plans for an `Inclusive City’ near Malir Expressway, demonstrating dedication to integrated urban accessibility.

These measures aim to enforce the Sindh Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act 2018, which guarantees access to education, health, employment, and public services, and enforces a five per cent (5pc) job quota for people with disabilities in government roles.

Shifting from policy to culture, the CM called for breaking ingrained biases, stressing that true inclusion requires a cultural shift to eradicate attitudinal barriers. He emphasised that mobility, education, healthcare, sports, and jobs must be recognised as fundamental rights. The achievements of youth with disabilities—in the Special Olympics, entrepreneurship, and innovation—were highlighted as proof that determination overcomes physical limitations.
The event concluded on a personal note as Chief Minister Murad Shah warmly interacted with children with disabilities and their parents, visited organisational stalls, and took photographs, further demonstrating his commitment.

“Let us unite government bodies, private firms, NGOs, and communities to prioritise accessibility in physical spaces, digital platforms, and society,” the CM said. He added that the Sindh government remains committed to supporting a disability-inclusive province, where every individual contributes to Pakistan’s progress. “Together, no one will be left behind,” he concluded.

Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by cutting a cake at Noor Ali Trust Park and visiting exhibition stalls.

He also virtually inaugurated C-Arts in Larkano, along with the Dr Ruth Pfau MALC-DEPD centres in Larkano and Badin.