Career Excursion | Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP)
Wednesday September 25, 2019: The Career Development Center (CDC) arranged a study tour to Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP). The trip featured witnessing therapy provided to children with down syndrome, taking a tour through KDSP's facility, and networking with KDSP's representatives.
The Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP), a non-profit organization, started in 2014 by a group of affected parents and passionate individuals who realized a need for a platform of those affected by down syndrome. Since its inception, KDSP has been involved in organizing workshops and trainings with international speakers and experts, running city-wide awareness campaigns, holding monthly support group meetings, printing regular newsletters, establishing a helpline for parents, and partnering with educational institutions to promote inclusive education.
Down Syndrome is a genetic condition which causes physical growth delays, intellectual delays, and weak muscles. KDSP works on six different areas: Family Support Group, Awareness, Early Childhood Intervention, Education and Training Program, Enrichment Program, and Healthcare. Students were briefed about the early intervention period. For the first crucial 100 days of a baby, KDSP arranges physical interaction and speech therapies for the children with down syndrome. The institution provides over 200 therapy sessions per week. For grown-ups, Adults Arts & Crafts classes are arranged where they are taught knitting and stitching. These hand-made garments are then sold and all the proceeds are given back to the kids.
During the visit, our students performed certain activities which made them realize the difficulties faced by these inflicted people on daily basis. This awareness tour not only evoked compassion within students but also motivated them to aid such sacred causes.
