Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has inaugurated 49 digital classrooms and 20 satellite schools to expand education opportunities for Deaf and differently-abled children across the province.

The initiative is being implemented by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPD) in collaboration with Deaf Reach and the Family Educational Services Foundation (FESF).

The 49 digital classrooms operate across 37 Special Education and Rehabilitation Centres. They are expected to benefit around 754 Deaf students.

The 20 satellite schools will provide specialised education to about 476 children, particularly in areas where access to such services has remained limited.

The facilities form part of a wider effort to use technology and sign language education to improve access for children with hearing disabilities.

Digital Classrooms Expand Access to Deaf Education

The new classrooms feature smart boards, e-learning resources and other digital learning tools.

The programme also incorporates a structured Pakistan Sign Language curriculum and digital resources developed for Deaf learners.

Officials said the technology will help bring specialised education closer to children and families in underserved areas.

The government has also launched a Sign Language Teachers’ Training Programme in collaboration with Deaf Reach and FESF. The programme aims to strengthen teachers’ skills and improve communication with students.

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Murad Ali Shah said every child should have access to quality education and modern learning opportunities.

He also stressed that technology and infrastructure alone cannot improve education. Trained teachers and professionals remain essential to making the new facilities effective.

Satellite Schools Target Underserved Communities

The 20 satellite schools will extend specialised education beyond established centres.

The programme aims to reduce the geographical barriers that prevent children in remote communities from accessing Deaf education.

The expansion also builds on the long-standing partnership between the Sindh government and Deaf Reach.

Deaf Reach founder Richard Geary presented the organisation’s work in Sindh and its collaboration with DEPD during the inauguration.

Geary said education was the first step towards empowering Deaf children and youth.

He highlighted the importance of combining sign language literacy, digital learning, teacher training and vocational skills.

Sindh Expands Special Education Network

The inauguration took place at the Government Special Education and Rehabilitation Complex in Gulistan-e-Jauhar.

The chief minister visited the new facilities and interacted with students and teachers.

Officials said demand for specialised education continues to grow. Around 500 students are currently enrolled at two government facilities in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, while nearly 810 children are waiting for admission, according to DEPD officials.

The Sindh government currently has around 20,000 students enrolled in 67 special education institutions across the province. These institutions provide education, rehabilitation and other support services.

The latest initiative aims to bring specialised education closer to children’s homes while strengthening opportunities for learning, skills development and greater independence.