Admissions Start in Pakistan’s First-Ever Maryam Nawaz School & Resource Centre For Autism
The doors are now open for a historic milestone: admissions at Pakistan’s first-ever government-run autism school have officially begun. The Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism welcomes children aged 3–16 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), offering hope, opportunity and inclusion for families across Punjab.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| School Name | Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism |
| Location | Lahore, Punjab (public–sector school) |
| Admission Status | Open now |
| Last Date for Applications | 10 December 2025 |
| Eligible Age Groups | 3–5 (Early Childhood), 6–12 (Junior), 13–16 (Senior) |
| Registration Mode | Online submission via official portal |
| Official Website | autism.punjab.gov.pk |
| Services Offered | Education, therapy, speech & language support, individualized plans |
Why This School Is a Groundbreaking Step
For decades, families of autistic children in Pakistan have struggled to find affordable, well-equipped institutions that understand autism and specialise in supporting neurodiverse children. The new school — a product of the vision of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Chief Minister of Punjab — fills a critical gap in the system.
With structured sections by age group and a curriculum tailored to children with ASD, this school aims to provide inclusive, high-quality education and therapy services under one roof.
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Who Can Apply — and What You Need
Admissions are open to children who meet the school’s eligibility criteria. According to the official portal:
- Children must have a confirmed diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a recognized hospital or certified professional.
- Age eligibility: between 3 and 16 years at time of application.
- Required documentation may include medical/diagnostic reports, birth certificate, CNICs of parent/guardian, photographs, and any previous assessments or therapy records (if available).
- Parents/guardians are also expected to attend orientation or interview sessions as part of the admission process.
Note: Submission of an application does not guarantee placement — admissions depend on screening, seat availability, and suitability of services.
Step-by-Step Admission Process
- Visit the official website: autism.punjab.gov.pk
- Open the “Registration / Admission” section to access the online form.
- Fill in required details about the child and parent/guardian.
- Upload diagnostic report, evaluation/therapy history (if available), birth certificate, CNICs, photos.
- Submit the form. The Admission Coordinator will respond within a few days.
- The school reviews applications and performs a preliminary screening for suitability.
- Eligible children and families are called for a family interview and student assessment to understand strengths, needs, and baseline.
- If accepted, parents receive an offer letter; then an intake meeting & Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is arranged — ensuring each child receives tailored support.
Families whose children are eligible but for whom immediate seats are unavailable may be placed in a waiting pool — admissions are not strictly first-come, first-served but balanced based on needs and class/resource readiness.
What Services & Support the School Offers
The school’s official mission promises a comprehensive approach combining education, therapy, and life-skills support. Among available services:
- Evidence-based therapies: speech & language therapy (SALT), occupational therapy (OT), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and structured behavioral interventions.
- Small class sizes and individualized education plans tailored to each child’s strengths and needs.
- Support for not only academic learning, but also social skills, communication, daily-living skills, and overall developmental growth.
- Parental involvement: workshops, training sessions, and counseling to help families support their child at home too.
This integrated, child-centered model distinguishes the Maryam Nawaz School from many private centers — offering an inclusive, accessible environment for autistic children.
Why This Initiative Matters for Pakistan’s Future
- Inclusive Education for All: For many families, private autism therapy centers or special private schools are prohibitively expensive. A government-run, affordable option opens doors to many who previously had limited choices.
- Professional, Evidence-Based Care: By combining global best practices such as ABA, SALT, TEACCH (Tailored Education for Autism), the school aims to align with international standards — adapted to the Pakistani context.
- Holistic Support: Academic education plus therapies and life-skills means children can grow holistically — increasing their chances of meaningful social integration and independence.
- Reducing Stigma: A public, government-endorsed institution normalizes autism care and sends a strong message about inclusion and empathy.
As official sources and leading newspapers highlight, this move reflects a long-term commitment from the Punjab government to uplift special education and support families of children with disabilities.
Helpline & Contact Information
For the latest and accurate contact details — including phone numbers, email, and support services — parents and guardians are advised to visit the official website of Maryam Nawaz Autism School:
👉 autism.punjab.gov.pk — there is a dedicated “Contact / Inquiry” section for admission support, queries, and guidance.
Because the school is new and services are evolving, the website remains the most reliable source for updated helpline numbers, admission status, and support services.
Conclusion
The opening of admissions at the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism represents a bright new chapter for inclusive education in Pakistan. For the first time, families of children with autism have access to a dedicated, professionally managed, government-backed institution — one that not only offers academic learning but holistic growth through therapy, life skills, and family support.
With online registrations open until December 10, 2025, parents of eligible children are encouraged to act now. This school holds the promise of a brighter, more inclusive future — giving children with autism a real chance to learn, grow, and thrive.
FAQs
What is the last date to apply for admission?
The final date for submitting online admission forms is 10 December 2025.
Where can I register my child for admission?
Parents can submit admission forms via the official portal at autism.punjab.gov.pk.
Which age groups are eligible for admission?
Children between 3 and 16 years of age are eligible — with placement in Early Childhood, Junior, or Senior sections depending on age.
Is this school government-funded and affordable?
Yes — the Maryam Nawaz School is government-run under the Special Education Department of Punjab, offering an affordable, public-sector option for families of autistic children.