Dhaka, 4 January 2026 – The construction of “Ashar Alo Dhaka,” a specialized institution for children with special needs, was officially inaugurated today at Khilkhet, Dhaka, under the initiative of the Bangladesh Navy Family Welfare Association. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sharmin S. Murshid, Adviser to the Ministry of Social Welfare of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, as the chief guest. Special guests included Admiral M. Nazmul Hasan, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Bangladesh Navy Family Welfare Association President Nadia Sultana. Senior officials from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Planning Commission, Ministry of Finance, Bangladesh Navy, and various donor organizations were also present, along with military and civilian officials from the Dhaka Naval Area and representatives of the Navy Family Welfare Association and BNP Ladies Club Dhaka. During the event, an overview of the planned institution was presented. Addressing the gathering, Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid called for greater empathy toward children with special needs and emphasized the importance of collective efforts to ensure their education, healthcare, and psychological development. She urged both the government and society at large to actively support the promotion, development, and long-term success of “Ashar Alo Dhaka.”
Built on the guiding principle of “The Right to Special Education,” the institution will provide education and specialized services to children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other special needs. Facilities will include child-friendly classrooms, a multidisciplinary therapy zone, indoor play areas, a hydrotherapy pool, an outdoor sensory garden, and barrier-free access through ramps and elevators. Every aspect of the architectural design prioritizes the safety and developmental needs of children with disabilities. It is noteworthy that Ashar Alo Chattogram was recognized as the country’s best specialized educational institution for children with special needs on the occasion of the 18th World Autism Awareness Day, in recognition of its outstanding contributions to special education, healthcare, and training. The recognition reflects the Bangladesh Navy’s strong commitment and social responsibility toward children with special needs.
