Children with Down syndrome become the Chief Minister for a day.

In a heart-warming move, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah welcomed 22 children of the Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP) at CM House. Organized at the invitation of the King, the tour was aimed at inspiring the children and providing them with a unique and memorable experience.

Accompanied by KDSP co-founder and CEO Tabish Shahzad, Shah gave a warm welcome to the children. “CM House is more than 100 years old,” he shared with the children during a tour of the building.

He made light conversation with the children and asked: “Which of you wants to be the Chief Minister?” Most of the children eagerly raised their hands to express their dreams, but Dua expressed his desire to be the Chief Minister. Expressing stood up with confidence.

Respecting their wishes, Shah invited each child one by one to sit in his chair as he sat next to him. Bringing smiles to the faces of the children, he said that if you become the chief minister, we will become your assistants. One child said excitedly: “I have become the chief minister.” Another used Shah’s desk phone to call his father. The children also visited the gallery of the Chief Minister’s House, where the photographs of former Chief Ministers are displayed.

The experience was further enhanced when Dua was invited to preside over a formal meeting in the conference hall as the Chief Minister of the day. The meeting started with recitation of Holy Quran and National Anthem.

Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Agha Wasif briefed Dua about population, education and governance of the province. Taking his role seriously, Dua instructed his cabinet of children to keep Pakistan clean.

Her instructions were supported by the Shah, who told her: “Miss Dua CM, we will follow your instructions to keep every city and country clean.” When Angela asked the Shah about ways to ensure the country’s development, he emphasized the importance of democracy: “The country will develop through democracy.” The day ended with children taking pictures on the Chief Minister’s chair and receiving gifts from the King.

As the children bid their farewells, Shah thanked them for their arrival and told them that their joyous laughter would echo through the halls of Chief Minister House for years to come. The visit was a touching reminder of the need to create inclusive opportunities and encourage children with special needs to dream big.

Center for Youth Development

Shah also inaugurated the Prof. Heshmat Lodi Youth Development Center at Sindh Madrasatul Islam University (SMIU) dedicated to empowering youth with opportunities for education, employment and personal development.

The Chief Minister appreciated the rich legacy of SMUI as the alma mater of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other national figures. He praised the university’s 140-year long commitment to excellence in education, and its role in producing visionary leaders, libertarians and scholars.

Shah paid tribute to the late Prof. Lodi, highlighting his lifelong dedication to education, his contribution to academic excellence, and his achievements as a leading quizmaster, sportsperson and media personality. “Professor Lodi’s legacy will influence generations to come, and this Youth Development Center is a testament to his vision and values.”

Commitment to involvement

The Chief Minister also visited Clifton Park on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The event featured an impressive talent show and exhibition, showcasing the creativity and talent of differently-abled people.

Shah emphasized his government’s commitment to building an inclusive society. “This day serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience and contribution of people with disabilities, while reaffirming our shared responsibility to promote a society where everyone can thrive with dignity and equality. ”

He highlighted his government’s initiatives to empower persons with disabilities, including vocational training programs tailored to individual abilities and interests. increasing access to public spaces, transportation and educational institutions; public awareness campaigns to combat stigma and discrimination; and collaboration with NGOs and organizations dedicated to disability advocacy and support.