The members of Pakistan Association of Blind Larkana district branch have been carrying out certain welfare works with the help of philanthropists
Pakistan Association of Blind (PAB) Larkana district branch has been working since 1991. It has 100 active members who work voluntarily for the welfare of the visually impaired community. The welfare works for such special persons are education, security and personality grooming etc.
I met some members of the visually impaired community who were complaining that the government has forgotten them. There is no allocation of funds in the budget for the welfare of these persons. The PAB members contribute themselves or seek help from different sources. “The help from the philanthropists is appreciated but how long the government will ignore the welfare of blind people,” they questioned.
It is high time that the government must take tangible steps for the welfare of the blind community. The institutions like schools, professional vocational training centers should be setup, and health plus life security cards must be issued to them. Such institutions can groom talented youth who could work as leaders.
We have the precedent like Yousif Saleem, the first blind judge who took oath in 2018 after clearing the competitive judicial examination. Like him, there is Khadim Sangi who has been working in Sindh High Court Circuit Bench Larkana as phone exchange operator for last many years. His services are highly appreciable. There are many examples for us. Visually impaired Sajid Iqbal, who graduated from NUML Islamabad in English Literature, is serving as Lecturer of English at government degree college Hayatabad, Peshawar. He is inspiration for all those whom he teaches. Like them, there are many others who can achieve the highest goals in their life if they are given opportunity and platform to show their skills.
They are also the part of society and could contribute to the nation and the country. They must not be ignored because of their blindness. We live in the 21st century which is age of science and technology. In this scientific era, these people can play a role. These blinds are full of talent and courage who could serve in different sectors. It may be education, media, sports, technology and health. They will prove as treasure trove of the nation. Their service will help the country to boost the economy. They have the ability to contribute for social and economic uplift of the society. They never give up to life as ordinary man due to their blindness. They consistently struggle to stand on their feet as invincible man. They support their family with hard work and discharge service as good citizens. But, unfortunately, government has ignored this community to provide them quality education and proper platform. It is the responsibility of the state to look after all segments of the society.
Mujeeb Ali Samo
Larkana, Sindh
