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Azim to inaugurate school for blind today

RECORDER REPORT

KARACHI: Dr. Muhammed Hussain Punjwani School for the Blind having a capacity for 200 students, will be inaugurated by Sindh Governor Azim Daudpota, on Thursday, January 27, 2000.

The school building, added to the existing premises of The Ida Rieu School for Deaf and Dumb, an 80 years old institution for special children, has been constructed at a cost of Rs. 30 million donated by a Pakistani lady, Begum Nadira Punjwani.

The school for the blind comprises a ground and two upper floors with a total built up area of 36,000 sq.ft. Each floor has approximately 12,000 sq.ft of floor space. The ground floor has eight rooms equipped with custom designed furniture for the blind.

Nadira Punjwani, holding pre-inaugural session with journalists on Wednesday said the school would serve blind students of all ages. They would be taught and trained to become useful citizens.

She said efforts are being made to upgrade the school to degree level. The school would be managed on most modern lines and updating of teaching aids would be a regular feature so that "our students remain in touch with the latest."

Maher H. Alvi, Hony Treasurer of The Ida Rieu Poor Welfare Association, informed about the functioning of the Association and the contribution Nadira Punjwani had made for the welfare of the blind. He eulogised the services of Nadira Punjwani and said this is the biggest donation (Rs. 30 million) so far received by the Association from any philanthropist.