KARACHI: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah opened the North Nazimabad chapter of Karachi Down Syndrome Programme (KDSP) — a non-profit organisation advocating for the value, acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome — on Tuesday.

Built with the provincial government’s support, the KDSP centre is the third purpose-built facility in Karachi, offering a range of essential services, including occupational, speech and physical therapy, as well as specialised educational programmes for younger children and vocational training for older students with special needs.

The ceremony was attended by parents, therapists, community leaders and volunteers, all celebrating a significant step forward in inclusive service delivery in the city.

In his address, the chief minister commended KDSP as one of the largest and most comprehensive institutions in the region, providing end-to-end support for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

He remarked: “Karachi is home to more than 30,000 individuals with Down syndrome. This number is not just a statistic, it reflects dreams, challenges and talents. Institutions like KDSP are helping these individuals unlock their full potential with dignity and care.”

CM Murad praises non-profit KDSP for addressing long-standing needs of children’s families

The newly launched facility significantly enhances KDSP’s capacity, increasing the number of therapy sessions provided annually from 30,000 to over 50,000.

The CM expressed gratitude to the organisation for addressing the long-standing needs of families, many of whom had been waiting for these services for years. “Today, those families are being welcomed here - not only with care but with the promise of brighter days ahead,” he noted.

He reiterated his administration’s resolve to strengthen public-private partnerships for disability support services, stating, “We are committed to strengthening support systems for persons with disabilities, ensuring their rightful place in society.”

He emphasised that progress should be evaluated not only through economic growth but also by the compassion demonstrated towards vulnerable populations. “KDSP stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when a community comes together with heart, purpose and vision,” he added.

The chief minister highlighted the urgent need for such centres in district Central, noting that 80 children have already been enrolled at the KDSP centre, which has the capacity for an additional 150 children.

Emphasising the importance of expanding these facilities, he requested the establishment of similar centres in Hyderabad and proposed a deadline for this expansion by December, assuring full government support to initiate the work immediately.

He offered to provide any required space for KDSP in the Inclusive City, where shared facilities would be offered to all children, including those with autism.

Mr Shah assured that the government would assist with setting up infrastructure, urging donors to come forward. Additionally, he mentioned that a Down Syndrome Centre was also being established in front of the Aga Khan Hospital.

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts, he stated that this work cannot be accomplished solely by the public sector and that the involvement of the private sector is essential. “There is no shortage of funds; we need willing individuals,” he remarked.

Speaking on the occasion, Sharjeel Memon said that he is always available to serve as a volunteer for special children and emphasised the need for taking further steps for their welfare. He added that the credit for this project goes to the CM, who has taken significant initiatives in this regard.

He praised the work being done at the autism centres and urged the media to highlight their positive aspects so that more parents can become aware and benefit from these services.

Approximately 300,000 children in the country are affected by Down syndrome and there is urgent need for dedicated centres for their care and support, he said.

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2025