Renowned Radio Pakistan Sargodha presenter Sabtain Baloch met Zahid Iqbal, the divisional in-charge of Special Education, to discuss educational facilities provided to students with special needs, the performance of special education institutions, and the challenges they face.
According to Zahid Iqbal, a total of 3,963 students with special needs are currently enrolled in educational institutions across the four districts of Sargodha Division. These include 1,828 students in Sargodha, 619 in Khushab, 641 in Mianwali, and 875 in Bhakkar.
He explained that free pick-and-drop services are provided to students with special needs, while hostel facilities are also available in Sargodha and Mianwali. Students residing in these hostels receive three meals a day and three uniforms free of charge. In addition, educational opportunities up to the intermediate level, along with diploma programmes, are available to support their academic development and vocational training.
During the meeting, the participants emphasised the importance of equal educational opportunities, positive social attitudes, and public awareness in enabling children with special needs to become independent and active members of society.
Zahid Iqbal thanked Sabtain Baloch for his interest in the field of special education and expressed hope that cooperation from the media would further raise public awareness about the needs of children with special needs and the educational facilities available to them.
