NA Committee calls for better support for children with Dyslexia
Islamabad: More than two years after the approval of the Dyslexia Special Measures Law, the National Assembly Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training has raised serious concerns over the slow progress in implementing measures designed to support children facing learning difficulties.
During the 25th meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training, chaired by Ms. Mahtab Akbar Rashdi, MNA, the committee reviewed the progress of recommendations made for children with dyslexia and questioned whether the required rules, support systems and professional facilities had been fully developed.
The issue was brought before the committee after Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, MNA, presented the report of the sub committee on dyslexia. She informed the committee that a meeting on the subject was held on 19 February 2024 at the National Assembly regarding the Dyslexia Bill passed in 2022. She stated that officials had earlier informed the committee that work on implementation was still in progress.
Dr. Shazia highlighted that dyslexia is often misunderstood as a disease, while it is actually a learning condition that requires proper identification and specialised support. She stressed the need for trained experts who can identify children with dyslexia and help them continue their education effectively.
The committee had earlier recommended that the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training provide details about the implementation status of the Dyslexia Special Measures Law, including rules, regulations, screening reports and future plans. It also called for the creation of a national database and the availability of trained remedial therapists and educational psychologists to support affected children.
The committee also recommended that examination boards develop special arrangements for students with certified dyslexia and related learning difficulties so they can receive appropriate support during examinations.
Dr. Shazia further recommended bringing all major education stakeholders together, including the Higher Education Commission, National Vocational and Technical Training Commission, Allama Iqbal Open University, Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Inter Boards Coordination Committee, National Institute of Psychology, National Book Foundation and National Curriculum Council.
She said that joint efforts were necessary to prepare proper rules and regulations and start practical work under the law.
Chairperson Ms. Mahtab Akbar Rashdi directed that the recommendations should officially be sent to the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. She said the Ministry should review the recommendations and provide information about implementation progress or any concerns.
A ministry representative informed the committee that some steps had already been taken and a report on completed and ongoing actions would be submitted. The official also stated that remedial therapy services had already been started in government schools.
Committee members also suggested involving organisations already working voluntarily for children with learning difficulties so their experience and feedback could help improve the system. The committee’s discussion highlighted concerns over the lack of a complete national system for identifying children with dyslexia, shortage of trained specialists and the need for stronger coordination between education institutions and government departments.
The committee stressed that children with learning difficulties should not be ignored and must receive proper educational support, trained professionals and suitable examination facilities so they can achieve their full potential.
