The Punjab Assembly’s Special Education Committee has approved the Autism School and Resource Centre Bill 2025, marking a major step toward establishing the province’s first dedicated institution for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The inaugural centre will be set up in Lahore, with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz instructing that it be completed within two months. She will also serve as Chairperson of the Board of Governors, overseeing its operations.
The bill—now headed for final approval in the Punjab Assembly—calls for the creation of a comprehensive school and resource centre offering education, therapy, training, and inclusive care for children with autism. The institution will also support families, conduct research, and partner with relevant organizations.
Designed as a corporate entity, the Centre will be authorized to acquire property, receive donations, and expand through sub-campuses across the province. A diverse Board, including government officials, autism experts, and parents, will manage its governance and strategic direction.
Key responsibilities of the Board include staff recruitment, budgeting, performance reviews, training programs, and public outreach. A Selection Committee will appoint a Principal with specialized experience in autism care. The institution will operate through a dedicated fund, sustained by government support and private donations.
Once passed into law, the Act will take effect immediately, representing a significant advancement in Punjab’s commitment to inclusive education and the welfare of individuals with special needs.