KARACHI: World Children’s Day was celebrated across the province, including Karachi, with a number of events extending best wishes to children and child rights activists along with various activities, discussions and debates on relevant topics.

The Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) organised a week-long series of engaging and impactful events to reaffirm the hospital’s commitment to the health, safety, and future of children.

The festivities began with a joyous cake-cutting ceremony led by Dr Fyezah Jehan, chair of paediatrics and child health, and Dr Ali Faisal Saleem, vice chair of paediatrics and child health at the AKUH.

The ceremony, held at the play area in the hospitals’ paediatric ward, brought smiles to children under AKUH’s care. The day continued with face painting and a captivating magic show that enchanted the young audience with tricks and interactive performances.

On Nov 19, students from schools across the city — Habib Public School, Dawood Public School, and Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan School — participated in a speech competition, debating key issues such as vaccination and brain drain. Following the competition, the students attended a ‘Basic Life Support Session’, equipping them with lifesaving skills.

The highlight of the week was the lively walk at AKU’s lush-green campus, that brought together students from several schools, AKUH leadership, faculty, and healthcare professionals. The walk symbolised unity and reinforced AKUH’s unwavering commitment to its young patients.

Dr Asim Belgaumi, chief medical officer, said: “World Children’s Day is a reminder of the limitless potential of every child. At AKUH, we go beyond medical care to ensure children receive the emotional and psychological support they need to truly heal.”

The walk was followed by a science exhibition where students showcased innovative projects, reflecting their creativity and problem-solving skills. A fire-safety demonstration captivated the audience, teaching children vital emergency preparedness techniques in an engaging, hands-on way.

This year’s celebrations, from speech competitions to the science exhibition, provided a platform to listen to children’s voices and empower them to shape their future.

The week’s festivities, with the enthusiastic participation of children, staff, and families, highlighted AKUH’s dedication to advocating for children’s health, safety, and empowerment.

Murad visits centre for autistic children

On the occasion of World Children’s Day, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah visited Ujala Centre, a facility for children with autism and other disabilities, and announced the establishment of Ujala-2 in Defence Housing Authority in partnership with Ujala Centre and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD).

During his visit to Ujala Centre, he also announced the construction of a separate park for special children in Clifton. Mr Shah was informed that the Ujala-2 aimed to help children with autism and the centre was expected to make significant progress in providing special education and therapy services to children.

The Ujala-2 project will be established on 400 square yards in Defence Phase VIII with the support of Ujala Head Yaqub Zakaria and the DEPD. The chief minister praised Mr Zakaria for creating a conducive environment for children and stressed the need for comprehensive education for children across the province.

He also met the mothers of children with autism and got details from them about the daily difficulties they face. The parents complained about the lack of comprehensive education centres, social pressure, therapy and limited resources for education. The chief minister also directed the mayor to establish a separate park in Clifton Block 5.

Published in Dawn, November 21st, 2024