Pakistan assists in establishing digital skill centre for autistic children in Hulhumale'

A new digital skill centre aimed at developing practical skills among children with autism has been inaugurated at the Maldives Autism Association (MAA) in Hulhumale', with assistance from the Government of Pakistan.

The Jinnah Digital Skill Centre (JDSC) was launched on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Jinnah, a lawyer and statesman, is honoured in Pakistan as Quaid-e-Azam (Great Leader) and Baba-e-Qaum (Father of the Nation).

The centre was inaugurated by the High Commissioner of Pakistan to the Maldives, Vice Admiral (Retd) Faisal Rasul Lodhi, and his wife Begum Humera Lodhi. The initiative was established with support from the Government of Pakistan.

The delegation from the Pakistan High Commission was welcomed by former First Lady Ilham Hussain, Dr Ismail Shafeeu, CEO of MAA, along with the association’s management, teachers and children.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ilham Hussain expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Pakistan for its generous assistance. She said the newly established digital skill centre marks a significant step forward in providing vocational training and practical skill development for children with autism. She also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to support individuals with special needs in Maldivian society.

High Commissioner Faisal Rasul Lodhi commended MAA for its dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for children with autism. He said the Jinnah Digital Skill Centre symbolises the strong brotherly relations between Maldives and Pakistan, and noted that naming the centre after Muhammad Ali Jinnah reflects his people-centred vision and service.

He added that it is a collective responsibility to ensure children receive the care and support needed to grow into responsible members of society.

Following the ceremony, the High Commissioner and his delegation toured the new facility and held an interactive session with the staff and students of the Autism Centre.