WNAM REPORT: Pakistan Post, in collaboration with the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) and Institute of Dyslexia Education and Attitudinal Studies (IDEAS), launched a commemorative Dyslexia Awareness Stamp at a special ceremony held at IRS. The event marked International Dyslexia Awareness Day, celebrating efforts to recognize diverse learning needs and promote inclusive education in Pakistan.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of IRS, who underscored the importance of awareness and empathy in shaping inclusive societies. He remarked, ‘dyslexia is a learning difference that calls on policymakers, educators, researchers, and society to rethink perceptions and strengthen systems of support for inclusive learning.’ Ambassador Jauhar Saleem highlighted that the commemorative stamp, issued by Pakistan Post and approved by the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Ministry of Communications, reflects the Government’s strong commitment to fostering inclusivity and awareness for individuals with diverse learning needs. He stated that as an institution committed to inclusive policy discourse across social and developmental domains, the IRS is supporting this initiative to highlight the importance of educational equity and empowerment of children with learning differences.
Parliamentary Secretary Ms. Zeb Jaffar, who played a pivotal role in the approval of the Dyslexia Special Measures Act, 2022, underscored the importance of sustained awareness and collective action to bring about meaningful change in society. She emphasized that every individual, within their respective sphere of influence, can contribute to fostering understanding and support for children with diverse learning needs. Ms. Zeb Jaffar reiterated that every child is unique and deserves equal opportunity, encouragement, and the tools necessary to realize their full potential.
Delivering introductory remarks, Ms. Irum Mumtaz, Educationist and Founder of the IDEAS Institute of Dyslexia Education and Attitudinal Studies, spoke on “Understanding Dyslexia: Recognizing Diverse Learning Needs.” She emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, specialized teaching approaches, and inclusive policy frameworks. “Awareness is the first step toward acceptance. Through collaboration, we can create a learning environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive,” she noted.
Sqn Ldr Maqsood Ahmed (Retd.), Additional Director General, Pakistan Post, commended the collaboration among Pakistan Post, IRS, and IDEAS in highlighting the significance of addressing learning differences within the national education framework. He stated that “Pakistan Post takes pride in using its national platform to raise awareness on important social causes. The Dyslexia Stamp is a tribute to every child who learns differently yet brilliantly,” he said. He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and public awareness through postal initiatives.
The highlight of the event was unveiling of the Dyslexia Awareness Stamp, followed by a presentation by Mr. Abu Obaidah, student of NUML, who shared insights on the design concept and inspiration behind the stamp, symbolizing learning, understanding, and compassion. It is important to highlight that Class 7 student Muhammad Youshay demonstrated remarkable creativity by designing the First Day Cover Envelope for today’s commemorative stamp, making a valuable contribution to dyslexia awareness.
The ceremony was concluded by Dr. Rizwan Naseer, Senior Research Fellow, IRS, who emphasized that recognizing and addressing dyslexia is essential for building an inclusive society where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential. He extended gratitude to Mr. Samiullah Khan, Director General, Pakistan Post, and Squadron Leader Maqsood Ahmed (Retd), Additional Director General Pakistan Post, for their commitment to using national platforms to promote social awareness and inclusivity.
Ms. Irum Mumtaz extended the vote of thanks, recognizing Pakistan Post and IRS for their support in promoting dyslexia awareness nationwide. She emphasized that continued collaboration among public institutions, academia, and advocacy organizations is essential to ensure that every learner in Pakistan receives equitable opportunities to succeed.
The event brought together educators, policymakers, researchers, and civil society representatives reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing inclusive education across Pakistan.
