ISLAMABAD: Lubna Aftab, the Secretary of Pakistan Foundation Fighting Blindness (PFFB), has called upon the media, religious scholars, human rights activists, and civil society organizations to actively raise awareness about the rights of visually impaired individuals.
Speaking with news channel, she emphasized the need to create a supportive environment for people with visual impairments.
Aftab pointed out that the prevalence of visual impairment is unusually high in Pakistan, with one contributing factor being inter-family and cousin marriages. The PFFB, a dedicated association, has been tirelessly assisting visually impaired individuals across the country.
Pakistan Foundation Fighting Blindness (PFFB) has been at the forefront of efforts to increase awareness about the Foundation while effectively managing ongoing projects with available resources.
Furthermore, Aftab stressed the necessity of establishing assistive technology labs in schools and universities to ensure visually impaired students have equal educational opportunities. She called upon both the public and private sectors to raise awareness about the challenges faced by visually impaired people in society.
Aftab highlighted the valuable contributions of visually impaired individuals to the country’s economic and social development and emphasized that they need equal opportunities. She noted that disability is a social barrier that can be overcome with increased awareness campaigns.
In response to a question, Aftab emphasized the importance of eradicating the notion that people with disabilities are inferior. She urged society to treat individuals with disabilities as equals and ensure they receive equitable job opportunities.
Aftab concluded by stating that PFFB is dedicated to the rehabilitation of people with disabilities and encouraged various social organizations to collaborate in achieving this noble objective.