About Pakistan Centre for Autism (PCA)
Empowering individuals with Autism and learning differences since 2012.
Project of SCALeD
Pakistan Centre for Autism (PCA) is a Project of SCALeD (Society for Children with Autism and Learning Differences) which is a non-profit, non-governmental, non-political and welfare organization working for the education of individuals with autism, learning differences and special needs. It is registered under the Societies Registration Act XX1 of 1860. SCALeD has also been granted Tax Exemption under Section 2 (36) c.
PCA is recognized amongst top few institutions in Pakistan dedicated to the cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) awareness & support.
Our Mission
At Pakistan Centre for Autism (PCA), our mission is to empower individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and special needs through compassion, inclusion, and evidence-based support.
We strive to create a society where every child and adult can learn, grow, and lead a meaningful life with dignity and independence.
Providing comprehensive therapeutic interventions rooted in evidence-based practices to enhance learning, communication, and life skills.
Spreading awareness about Autism, early intervention, and inclusive education within mainstream schools and Pakistani society.
Developing strong community support networks that encourage acceptance, empathy, and collaboration for individuals with ASD and their families.
Our Aim
“To be the finest multidisciplinary, pro-inclusive Therapeutic and Training Centre in Pakistan empowering individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder towards a functional and successful life.”
Core Values of SCALeD
At SCALeD (Society for Children with Autism and Learning Differences), our values define who we are and guide how we serve children, families, and communities.
These principles form the foundation of our work and inspire us to create a world that embraces inclusion, respect, and hope.
Compassion
We believe in serving with empathy, understanding, and care — ensuring that every individual with Autism and learning differences feels valued, accepted, and supported.
Commitment
We are dedicated to continuous growth and improvement, striving every day to enhance the quality of our therapeutic, educational, and community programs.
Responsibility
We take pride in our accountability — to our students, families, and partners — by upholding professional standards and ethical practices in everything we do.
Perseverance
We remain steadfast in our mission, overcoming challenges with determination and teamwork to build a more inclusive and understanding society.
Our Journey
Toward Inclusion and Empowerment
The Pakistan Centre for Autism (PCA) began its journey in 2012 with a powerful vision — to build a society where children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other special needs can live functional, meaningful, and respectable lives.
The initiative was founded by Dr. Saeed Ismail, under the guidance and inspiration of renowned pediatrician and philanthropist Prof. Dr. Abdul Ghaffar Billoo, with the generous support of Mr. Babar Qamar Alam, a dedicated father and businessman.
Along with these visionary founders, several respected professionals and philanthropists joined the cause, including Dr. Shahzad Alam, Brig (R) Saleem Abdullah, Dr. Shahnaz Ibrahim, Ms. Sabina Khatri, Ms. Aamina Siddiqui, Dr. Ayesha Mehnaz, Ms. Samia Mujtaba, Mr. Naeem Munshi, and Dr. Zaibunnisa Ahmed — each contributing to PCA’s mission of empowerment and inclusion.
From its humble beginnings with the first campus in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, PCA has now expanded to three active branches in Karachi, offering comprehensive therapy and educational support to individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
To date, PCA has provided therapies to over 1000 clients, and through its School Readiness Program, 35 children have successfully transitioned into mainstream schools.
In addition to therapeutic services, PCA is also a centre of learning and professional training. Over the years, we have conducted Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) training for 300 participants, under the supervision of Ms. Alliya Haidery (BCBA, USA) and Mr. Mansur Choudry (BCBA, USA).
We also welcome undergraduate students for internships and research — more than 450 students have benefited from this experience so far.
Through continuous awareness programs, parent workshops, and skill development initiatives, PCA remains committed to building an inclusive community where every individual with autism is supported both at home and in society.
Message from the CEO
Ms. Alliya Batool Haidery
(CEO, PCA – SCALeD | MA (SP.ED), MScPT, BCBA (USA),(IBA), Former Assistant Professor at KIPRS
At the Pakistan Centre for Autism, our work is driven by compassion, evidence-based practice, and a commitment to inclusion. We strive to deliver timely interventions, train professionals and families, and create opportunities that enable children with autism to learn, communicate and participate fully in community life. Together with our multidisciplinary team, we focus on practical, culturally relevant solutions that empower families and respect each child’s unique strengths.
