CM inaugurates KDSP’s third chapter, ledges Ongoing Support for Inclusive Services

KARACHI, Jul 22 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah officially inaugurated the Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP) Third Chapter in North Nazimabad on Tuesday, reaffirming the Sindh government’s dedication to fostering inclusive development and ensuring accessible services for individuals with disabilities.
The ceremony was attended by parents, therapists, community leaders, and volunteers, all celebrating a significant step forward in inclusive service delivery in Karachi.
The KDSP Third Chapter is now fully operational and ready to welcome new families, continuing its mission to empower individuals with Down syndrome and promote a more inclusive society.
In his address at the inauguration ceremony, Chief Minister Shah commended KDSP as one of the largest and most comprehensive institutions in South Asia, 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.”
The newly launched Third Chapter significantly enhances KDSP’s capacity, increasing the number of therapy sessions provided annually from 30,000 to over 50,000. The centre offers a full 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 in activities such as pottery and painting.
The chief minister expressed gratitude for KDSP’s commitment to addressing the long-standing demand from families on the waitlist, many of whom have awaited services for years. “Today, those families are being welcomed here – not only with care but with the promise of brighter days ahead,” he noted.
Murad Shah 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 the Central District, noting that 80 children have already been enrolled at the KDSP Centre, which has the capacity for an additional 150 children. He expressed hope that the project will continue to operate successfully.
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. “I wish for the Hyderabad centre to be inaugurated before December 31,” he stated.
The Chief Minister further committed to supporting this cause regardless of his position, promising to continue working for it. He offered to provide any required space for KDSP in Inclusive City, which will offer shared facilities for all children, including those with autism, and will allow all organisations access to free resources.
Shah assured that the government will assist with setting up infrastructure and urged that donors also be brought on board. Additionally, he mentioned a Down Syndrome Centre being developed in front of 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.
Chief Minister Murad Shah praised KDSP’s dedication and his team’s excellent work, highlighting the enormous potential of children with Down Syndrome who deserve recognition. He directed that work on the Hyderabad centres should start immediately, with support from relevant officials in finding suitable locations. He assured that all necessary resources would be provided by the Government of Sindh.
Those who spoke on the occasion include Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon, DSPD Director Ali Allahwala, CEO Tabish Shehzad and others.