KP Governor aide reviews social welfare deptt performance
PESHAWAR (APP): Adviser to the Governor, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Education and Social Welfare, Dr. Aamer Abdullah, chaired a meeting on the affairs of the social welfare department, during which a detailed review was conducted of the department’s core responsibilities, services, achievements across various sectors and relevant legal framework.
Secretary Social Welfare and Women Development Sharif Hussain, Managing Director of Lesail-Wal-Mahroom Musharraf Khan, Director Social Welfare Fahad Ikram Qazi, Chief of the Child Protection Commission Ejaz Muhammad Khan, and other relevant officers attended the meeting.
During the meeting, Dr. Aamer Abdullah was given a comprehensive briefing on the performance of various wings of the department, ongoing services and available resources.
On the occasion, Dr. Aamer Abdullah sought information regarding the resources available to the department and the legal measures being undertaken for child protection. He particularly inquired about the implementation of the existing law and the procedure followed for the care and custody of abducted children after their recovery and placement under the department’s care.
He directed the officials to share the department’s case management system and available data concerning children under its care.
After reviewing the Act prepared by the department regarding child protection and care, the Adviser for Education and Social Welfare directed that immediate steps be taken to forward it to the relevant authorities through the Law Department for further legal proceedings and effective implementation.
He expressed his desire for positive and effective amendments to the law governing welfare homes to facilitate the repatriation and reintegration of children residing in these institutions into their families.
He said that reintegration of children with their families was an important humanitarian and social responsibility.
Dr. Aamer Abdullah also proposed for getting the services of a renowned social personality as the department’s brand ambassador to play an effective role in supporting the process of reuniting children with their families.
He further directed that the case for the health allowance of rehabilitation centre employees be expedited at the Finance Department.
Regarding the rehabilitation of drug addicts, the Adviser on Social Welfare directed the formulation of an effective, scientifically based mechanism to ensure complete recovery from addiction and prevent individuals from relapsing into drug abuse. He observed that a significant number of individuals discharged from rehabilitation centres tend to return to substance abuse, making practical measures essential for addressing the issue on a sustainable basis.
He directed that feasible measures be identified under the proposed development projects or the fourth phase of the Drug-Free Campaign to ensure that individuals recovering from addiction could become productive members of society and be protected from the risk of relapse. A comprehensive report on the matter was also directed to be submitted within ten days.
With regard to improving facilities for residents of shelter homes and addressing their financial issues, Dr. Aamer Abdullah directed the Secretary Social Welfare to prepare a case for the necessary financial assistance.
Regarding the welfare of persons with disabilities, the Adviser on Social Welfare directed a detailed study of the registry models adopted by other provinces and a comparative assessment of these models against the proposed Social Protection Authority law of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He emphasised that a comprehensive review should be undertaken of the comparative aspects, similarities, distinguishing features and other relevant matters concerning the registry models and the proposed legislation, so that an effective, functional and improved system could be developed for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
