CIVIL society organisations are often frequently seen highlighting the needs of special children in the country, but we continue to lack specific schools for such children. It is unfortunate that we cannot afford to provide tailored education and care for one of the most vulnerable segments of population; the special children.

These children should have access to top-notch education that is designed to meet their requirements. Children with mental or emotional disabilities and barriers should have the right to a high level of education suited to their needs. However, the available facilities in Karachi for these children are scarce.

This void gives many parents no choice, but to forgo education completely, or send their children to mainstream schools that are ill-equipped to accommodate them and unable to provide customised attention and recognition as they lack necessary training. In either case, it is the children who suffer.

These children can only grow in a setting that supports their particular learning styles and needs. In addition to academics, special schools focus on teaching practical life skills to help children with special needs navigate daily tasks and gain independence, an area that mainstream education systems do not emphasise.

Moreover, smaller class numbers at special schools enable more one-on-one time and a slower learning pace to ensure that children can understand things at their own pace. The absence of these kinds of esta-blishments in the country, including Karachi, is an urgent problem that needs the relevant authorities to take prompt action.

To make sure that no special child is left behind, the authorities concerned should invest in establishing more special schools. It is our shared duty to ensure that ever-yone has access to this fundamental right.

Varisha Riaz
Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 24th, 2024