Universal Children’s Day at Saba Homes
By Dr Fauzia Assad
A wonderful evening was celebrated on 20th November 2011 to commemorate the Universal Day for Children at Saba Homes in Gulraiz, Rawalpindi, in collaboration with Lions Club. Mrs Nelofar Bakhtair and Mr. Akram Zaki graced the occasion.
Saba Trust has been operational since 1965 under the stewardship of Mr Saghir Ahmad Aslam, chief patron and ‘papa’ of 40 orphan girls. The prime objective of the evening’s proceedings was to develop understanding between children and promoting the welfare of the world’s children as per recommendations of the United Nations General Assembly of 1954.
The function formally started on time with the recitation from the Holy Qur’an followed by the introductory and welcome remarks of Mr. Saghir Ahmed Aslam. He briefed the dignitaries and audience about the conceptual framework of Saba Homes and its working mechanism, followed by a video highlighting the efforts of Saba Homes for the well-being of orphan girls.
Skits and tableaus were also presented by the Saba girls. They were truly reflective of their feelings about the critical illnesses prevailing in the Pakistani society. The impressive oath-taking by the kids emotionally moved the audience. Mr.Munir Ahmed, a social scientist, was amazed to observe the kids: they were visibly disciplined by Saba Homes and sensitized about the norms and behaviors of civilized societies.
Saba Homes is catering to the essential needs of the kids. It would not be wrong to say that the facilities provided are not easily affordable by even a middle class family. The kids are not only getting good education from a well renowned institution but also follow a much disciplined routine from morning till the lights- off time. Their grooming is being closely supervised by dedicated staff and devoted ladies (known and called mothers). The emphasis is on character building, good manners, and religious awareness.
The visiting dignitaries and attendees of the event considered SABA HOMES as a beacon of hope which is spreading life and light among deprived children, especially orphans. By joining hands in this laudable undertaking many other individuals and organizations can usher a positive change in Pakistan by helping to eliminate beggary and drug addiction.
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