In a heartfelt move to make Eid celebrations more inclusive and joyful, the Punjab government has launched a province-wide initiative to distribute Eid gifts among 40,000 special students studying in government institutions. This initiative comes as a directive from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who emphasized the importance of ensuring that children with special needs feel equally celebrated and remembered during festive occasions.
Bringing Smiles to Special Students This Eid
With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, the Punjab government has taken a compassionate step to brighten the lives of children with disabilities. The Eid gift distribution campaign targets 40,000 students enrolled in various special education institutions under the Punjab government.
This initiative is not only about gifts — it reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and the social integration of differently-abled individuals within the mainstream community.
Gifts Distributed in Lahore’s Special Education Institutions
To kickstart the campaign, Special Assistant to Chief Minister on Special Education, Sania Ashiq, visited multiple special education centers in Lahore. She personally distributed Eid gifts to students and extended warm Eid greetings on behalf of the Chief Minister.
The distribution drive began at the Government Degree College of Special Education located in Johar Town. It then continued at the Government Shadab Institute of Special Education and the Government Degree College for Special Education in Nishtar Town, Lahore.
Students welcomed the surprise with cheerful smiles and enthusiastic responses. Many of them expressed joy and gratitude, as the event made them feel special and included in the upcoming Eid festivities.
A Gesture of Inclusion and Compassion
Speaking on the occasion, officials noted that this gesture is a symbol of the Punjab government's dedication to the welfare and dignity of individuals with special needs. The goal is to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, feels valued and remembered—especially during times of celebration.
Sania Ashiq stated that the government is fully committed to supporting children with disabilities, not only through education and healthcare but also by making sure their emotional and social needs are met. "Our mission is to create a Punjab where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated," she said.
Strengthening the Special Education Sector
This Eid gift distribution initiative is part of a larger strategy by the Punjab government to strengthen and upgrade the special education sector. Recent efforts include the provision of better infrastructure, training for teachers, and inclusive educational resources for children with physical, visual, auditory, and intellectual disabilities.
By initiating such compassionate programs, the government aims to build a culture of respect and understanding around special needs individuals, while promoting equal opportunities and access to public services.
Wider Reach Across Punjab
Although the campaign was launched in Lahore, the distribution of Eid gifts is being carried out across the province. Special education institutions in other major cities, including Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, and Sargodha, are also part of the drive. Local government teams and education department officials are ensuring smooth and timely distribution before Eid.
Each gift pack contains festive items tailored to bring happiness to the children, creating moments they can cherish with their families.
A Step Toward an Inclusive Society
This initiative aligns with the broader vision of an inclusive and compassionate Punjab. By celebrating Eid with special children, the government is setting an example of empathy-driven governance — one where every individual, regardless of their physical or mental abilities, is considered an essential part of the society.
Such acts of kindness have a lasting impact not only on the lives of the recipients but also on communities at large, by promoting a culture of love, acceptance, and inclusion.
