International Day of Persons with Disabilities

To commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on 03 December, 2025, the Rehabilitation Society organized an inspirational event titled "Rehab Speaks 2025: Stories that Move and Motivate".   
The event was held to promote advocacy, inclusion, empowerment, and motivation through the lived experiences of outstanding individuals who have excelled despite physical challenges. The program aligned with multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.
The key objectives of the event were to raise awareness about disability rights, promote inclusive mindsets, and inspire students, especially those in rehabilitation sciences, by highlighting the resilience of individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, the event aimed to provide a platform where inspirational figures could share authentic stories of resilience, and highlight the role of rehabilitation sciences in improving the quality of life.  
The speeches focused on self-belief, societal acceptance, accessibility opportunities, and collaboration toward an inclusive future.
The event featured three distinguished speakers who shared inspiring stories of resilience and achievement. Dr Anwar Ali, an Asian Record Holder in Paragliding and Former Pakistan Blind Cricket Team Member , delivered a talk titled "Beyond The Boundaries, How Blind Cricket Fosters Resilience and Inclusivity". His narrative of courage and adventure challenged societal norms about disability, and his presence reinforced key aspects of SDG 4 (equal educational access) and SDG 10 (inclusion and equity).
Yasir Naveed, Pakistan's Wheelchair Handball Champion, presented on "Strength Beyond Limits: The Journey of a Champion in Wheelchair Handball". His personal journey showcased that physical limitations cannot limit ambition, with a strong emphasis on discipline, training, and breaking stereotypes. His achievements were highlighted as inspiration for SDG 3 (well-being through sports) and SDG 5 (empowerment).

Finally, Moiz Shaukat, Social Activist and Founder of the Moiz Shaukat Humanities Initiative , spoke on "The Power Within". He shared profound insights into promoting empathy, equality, and humanistic values. His message underscored the power of collective responsibility, reflecting SDG 16 (strong communities) and SDG 10 (reduced inequalities).

The Chief Guest was Ms. Rubina Imtiaz, Chairperson of the Occupational Therapy and Speech & Language Therapy Department at PSRD. She delivered an address discussing inclusive rehabilitation practices and emphasized the necessity of joint institutional efforts to reduce barriers for differently-abled individuals.

The Guests of Honour included:

• Dr Maleeha Fuad, Principal, College of Rehabilitation Sciences, PSRD.
• Ms Ramma Inam, Head, Occupational Therapy Department, PSRD.
• Prof Dr Tanzeela Khalid, Dean of Clinical Research, TUF.
• Prof Dr Nailah Riaz, Professor & Head, Department of English Language and Literature, TUF.
• Prof Dr Shirza Nadeem, Professor & Vice Principal, University Medical and Dental College.

The Guests of Honour included:

Their participation highlighted inter-institutional collaboration, fulfilling SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals and reinforcing professional commitment toward inclusive rehabilitation. Rehab Speaks 2025 created a powerful impact by promoting disability awareness and encouraging empathy in society, educating rehabilitation students about advocacy, community inclusion, and patient-centered care, reinforcing values of determination, resilience, and equal participation.  
Students expressed motivation to initiate advocacy-driven rehabilitation services and contribute toward policy formulation addressing accessibility, thereby linking rehabilitation sciences with national social development frameworks.