ISLAMABAD, Jan. 4 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday highlighted the need to expand the braille system in educational institutions across the country to empower visually impaired people, saying the system is a gateway to knowledge, inclusivity and independence for millions.
"Braille is an important medium for visually impaired people to get education and knowledge. It is imperative to provide access to education to the special people for social and economic independence," the president said in his message on the occasion of World Braille Day, being observed on Saturday.
Underlining the need for ensuring the provision of important information to blind people, he said that urgent steps are being taken to give visually impaired people access to books in braille, adding that special attention is paid to all sections of people for creating a society based on justice and equality.
"We are committed to protecting the rights of special people and taking measures for their welfare and wellbeing. We resolve to work for the rights of people with special needs," Zardari said.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the country has been making efforts to create enablers in society that empower all individuals through accessible education, equipping schools with braille books, enhancing teacher training, and establishing specialized centers for visually impaired students.
"We are committed to build a Pakistan where every citizen has the platform and opportunities to thrive, every individual and institution has to play a part in promoting inclusivity and accessibility for all," the prime minister said. ■