22/05/2026
International World Autism Day Ceremony Held at the University of Lahore
A prestigious and impactful ceremony marking the “International World Autism Day” was organized at the University of Lahore through the Rex Medical Complex , Gilani Rehab Complex, and the University of Lahore. The primary objective of the event was to raise awareness about autism and the challenges faced by special children, not only in Pakistan but across the world. The program featured awareness sessions, keynote speeches, workshops, and panel discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of rehabilitation, therapy, education, and social inclusion for children with autism and other special needs.
The event received strong support and participation from Rex Rehabilitation Complex, Gilani Rehab Complex, ZAB Welfare Foundation , and HUM KHAS Organization. Several other welfare institutions also attended the program along with their special children, making the event even more meaningful and inspiring.
A large number of distinguished guests from the healthcare sector, special education departments, rehabilitation centers, and various professional fields participated in the ceremony. The attendees included senior doctors, speech pathologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, government officials, and social workers dedicated to the welfare of special children.
Among the notable participants were Dr. Sikandar, Dr. Rana Abdul Basit, Dr. Atiya, Dr. Abdul Rehman, Shahzad Haroon Bhutta, Dr. M.A. Aftab Bhutta, along with many other respected doctors, pathologists, and healthcare professionals.
Chairman of Zaib Welfare Foundation, Dr. M.A. Aftab Bhutta, attended the event as a special guest. The teams of Zaib Welfare Foundation and Hum Khaas Organization also participated enthusiastically under the leadership of Presidential Award Holder Ch. Muhammad Usman Aftab Bhutta.
One of the most emotional and memorable segments of the program was the colorful performances presented by special children. Through their performances, the children beautifully expressed their emotions, struggles, dreams, and life experiences. Their heartfelt presentations deeply moved the audience, creating an emotional atmosphere where many attendees were brought to tears.
During the ceremony, speakers emphasized that special children are an important and valuable part of society and should never be neglected or ignored. The speakers highlighted the need for love, care, acceptance, and professional support for children with autism and special needs. Parents were encouraged to seek guidance from therapists, psychologists, and specialized consultants to help their children lead healthier, more independent, and dignified lives.
Addressing the gathering, Chairman Zaib Welfare Foundation Dr. M.A. Aftab Bhutta stated that serving special children is not merely a responsibility but a noble humanitarian mission. He stressed the importance of recognizing their hidden talents and providing them with equal opportunities to become productive members of society.
Head and CEO of Rex Medical Center and Project Head of “Hum Khaas,” Dr. Naveed Aftab Bhutta, said in his speech that the rehabilitation, treatment, and empowerment of special individuals is the core mission of their institutions. He further shared that Rex Medical Center and Zaib Welfare Foundation are providing free therapies, rehabilitation services, and medical assistance worth approximately three to four million rupees every month for special children and their families.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, honorary shields were distributed among senior officials, doctors, specialists, participating institutions, and the special children who performed during the event. A special cake-cutting ceremony was also organized by Rex Rehabilitation Complex, Gilani Rehab Complex, and Zaib Welfare Foundation to celebrate International World Autism Day. Senior officials, distinguished guests, and representatives of participating organizations joined the celebration.
On this occasion, all participants reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring dignity, equal rights, rehabilitation facilities, therapy services, and educational opportunities for special children across Pakistan. They pledged to continue working collectively for the betterment, empowerment, and inclusion of special individuals in society.
Special prayers were offered at the end of the event for the well-being of special children, their parents, and society as a whole. The University of Lahore also arranged refreshments for all guests and participating organizations as a gesture of hospitality and appreciation.
