Free computer classes for children with disabilities would be started at the Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), the university’s chancellor Engr ZA Nizami has announced.
Speaking at a reception ceremony arranged by the Social Students Forum for the Pakistani athletes, coaches and officials, who recently participated in the Special Olympics – World Summer Games Athens 2011 and eventually bagged 58 medals, Nizami asked the people present on the occasion to help him set up an engineering university for the children with disabilities.
“Special Olympics are a gateway to empowerment, competence, acceptance and joy for individuals with disabilities living a life of neglect and isolation in Pakistan, hidden away or socially excluded from full participation in schools and society,” he said while speaking at the ceremony.
Appreciating the amazing success of children with disabilities in the games, he said that it is for the first time that our athletes have truly taken centre stage. “The games offer them an opportunity to participate in sports while promoting their inclusiveness and fostering communities of understanding and respect worldwide. Special Olympics provide people with disabilities to realise their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship by joining in sports activities,” he said.
“Special Olympics are undoubtedly throwing a message to the world that no physical or mental barrier can restrain the power of human spirit. If provided with proper support and training, people with disabilities can enhance their individual abilities,” he added. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig, adviser to the prime minister on textile, said on the occasion that the children with disabilities have created a soft image of the country across the world through their participation in the Special Olympics. “Credit also goes to the good bunch of dedicated people who made it possible,” he added.
Pakistan’s children bagged 17 gold medals, 27 silver medals and 14 bronze medals in the games. The Social Students Forum gave medals to the winners of Special Olympics, coaches and officials to appreciate their remarkable efforts and outstanding performance.
