ISLAMABAD, March 8: The chairman, Senate, Muhammad Mian Soomro on Wednesday stressed the need of bringing special children to the mainstream of the society. He said that special people, if properly trained and groomed, could play an important role in the country’s affairs.

Speaking at the launching ceremony of Pakistan’s first computer sign language book for hearing-impaired students, the Senate chairman underlined the need for understanding the problems of deaf, and all-out efforts should be made to resolve them. Sir Syed Deaf Association had organised the function.

He said the two per cent quota reserved for disabled in government jobs should be strictly implemented. There is a need to provide more and more opportunities to special children, he said. He advocated a separate TV channel for special people.

Mr Soomro appreciated the launching of computer sign language book and called for more research in this field. He said that special cards system would be introduced for handicapped so that they could be easily identified. He asked private companies and philanthropists to contribute in the welfare activities of special persons.

Later, in a brief talk to reporters he said that the party would decide the candidature for the slots of next chairman and deputy chairman of the upper house.

Mr Soomro said whoever was nominated by the party would be acceptable to all. Elections for the two slots are scheduled for March 12, 2006.