The Office of AI has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism to explore the use of Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies in autism education and care. The collaboration has been established in partnership with the Special Education Department Punjab and will examine ways technology can support more inclusive and personalised approaches for children with autism. The signing ceremony was held in the presence of Advisor to the Chief Minister Punjab Ali Dar and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Special Education Sania Ashiq.
Under the agreement, the participating organisations will bring together expertise in artificial intelligence, education and special education to identify practical applications of emerging technologies. The initiative will focus on exploring how AI-based tools can assist educators and provide more personalised learning and developmental support. The collaboration is also intended to examine ways technology can contribute to the educational experience of children and provide additional support for families involved in their care.
The partnership comes as the Punjab government expands the use of AI across education and public services. Earlier this month, the provincial government also launched an AI Curriculum and Training Initiative aimed at training more than 160,000 teachers and preparing students for future technologies and the digital economy. The initiative involves the School Education Department, PECTAA, PMIU-PESRP, UNICEF and the Office of AI, reflecting a wider focus on incorporating AI and digital skills into Punjab’s education system.
The new MoU specifically focuses on the potential role of AI in supporting inclusive education for children with autism. The Office of AI and the Maryam Nawaz School and Resource Centre for Autism will work with the Special Education Department to identify practical opportunities where emerging technologies can complement existing educational and developmental support. The collaboration is expected to bring specialist knowledge and technology expertise together while examining applications that can address the individual needs of children, assist educators and improve engagement for families. The agreement adds another area to Punjab’s ongoing AI initiatives, with the Office of AI also involved in broader efforts to integrate responsible AI and modern technologies into education and public-sector delivery.
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