Empowering Special Individuals: KVTC Becomes a Global Symbol of Inclusion
Empowering special individuals is not just a social responsibility but a shared mission, said Taha Ahmad Farooqi, Secretary of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEFD), Government of Sindh.
Speaking at a ceremony organized by the Karachi Vocational Training Centre (KVTC), he highlighted how vocational training is transforming the lives of children with disabilities across Sindh.
Sindh Allocates Rs 17 Billion for Empowerment Programs
Farooqi revealed that the Sindh Government has allocated Rs 17 billion to the DEFD to strengthen support systems for individuals with special needs.
He said 5.7 million children in Sindh have special needs, and 5,700 of them currently benefit from government-run services providing transportation, meals, and a Rs 3,000 stipend.
He added that the DEFD is also collaborating with NED University’s Biomedical Department to develop scanning sticks for visually impaired citizens — a major innovation for assistive technology in Pakistan.
“Through better training at KVTC, we are not only empowering special individuals but also changing how society perceives disability,” said Secretary Farooqi.
Achievements at International Martial Arts Event
The event honored KVTC students who represented Pakistan at the Open World Budo Martial Arts Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan, securing six gold and two silver medals.
Among the attendees were KVTC Chairman Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan, industrialist Nadeem Khan, Mohammad Qaiser Alam, and team manager and coach Aamir Shahab.
Farooqi noted that each medal symbolizes courage and perseverance, sending a clear message that talent knows no boundaries.
Government and Private Sector Collaboration Praised
Abdul Haseeb Khan, in his address, emphasized the need for strong public–private partnerships in the welfare sector.
“While the government plays a vital role, the private sector’s contribution to empowering special individuals is equally commendable,” he said.
He proudly stated that KVTC has earned international recognition and that Sindh is the only province offering such high-quality vocational training for special individuals in Pakistan.
“KVTC is no longer just a vocational training center — it has become a brand that represents Pakistan globally,” Senator Khan added.
Changing Mindsets Through Success
Senator Haseeb emphasized that the victories of KVTC students in Azerbaijan were not just about medals but about challenging outdated mindsets and proving that inclusion leads to excellence.
He extended gratitude to Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah for his consistent support of institutions working for people with disabilities.
“Every success of these children reflects the strength and spirit of Pakistan,” he said.
Medalists Honored
The gold medalists — Salah Muhammad, Tajammul Hussain, Mubashir Shakir, Faraz Khan, and Harish Abdul Samad — along with silver medalists Haseeb Asif and Shujaat Mukhtar, were honored at the ceremony.
Their coach, Aamir Shahab, received appreciation for guiding them to international success and for advancing Empowering Special Individuals initiatives through sports.
