Vocational Training Support for Autistic Children by TİKA

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has established vocational training facilities at the Sindh Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center to help autistic children prepare for life and serve as a foundation for further education.

The inauguration of the renovated vocational training areas, equipped with furniture and electronic hardware as part of the project, was attended by Dursun Ali Yaşacan, Head of TİKA’s East and South Asia, Pacific and Latin America (DOGAL) Department; and Cemal Sangu, Turkish Consul General in Karachi.

After the opening ceremony, Department Head Dursun Ali Yaşacan remarked that TİKA develops projects worldwide to improve the lives of disadvantaged groups and to support them in meaningful ways. He expressed his satisfaction in contributing to an institute that carries out such impactful work.

Turkish Consul General Cemal Sangu noted that he had visited all the institute’s units and witnessed firsthand the effectiveness and success of its services. He emphasized that TİKA had chosen the ideal institution for implementing this project. Sangu extended his gratitude to TİKA for its efforts and to the institute’s officials for providing valuable services to Pakistan.

1 in 100 children have autism

Highlighting the rapidly growing number of individuals with autism worldwide, Department Head Dr. Irum Rizwan stated that one in every 100 children in Pakistan is diagnosed with autism. She emphasized the institute’s dedication to supporting these special children and helping them adapt to everyday life. Dr. Rizwan also expressed her gratitude to TİKA for its valuable contributions.

As the first training hospital for autistic children in Pakistan, the institute provides rehabilitation and vocational training services to approximately 150 children daily through its Autism, Special Education and Vocational Training Department. In addition to fostering motor development and teaching essential daily life skills, the department offers vocational training in areas such as handicrafts, lamination, and cooking. It also serves as a training center for academics and students.