EBM and NOWPDP launch neuro-inclusive discovery room for children with developmental disabilities

English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM), in partnership with NOWPDP inaugurated Pakistan’s first Neuro-Inclusive Discovery Room at the Center of Excellence for Disability Inclusion (CEDI) in Korangi, Karachi. Developed with the experiential learning expertise of The Dawood Foundation’s (TDF) MagnifiScience Centre, the Discovery Room is designed for children with autism, ADHD and other developmental conditions, providing an engaging learning environment where interactive play supports cognitive, sensory, motor and social development.

According to Pakistan’s 2023 Population Census, approximately 3.1% of the country’s population lives with a disability. Yet opportunities for neuro-inclusive learning and developmental support remain limited, making initiatives like the Discovery Room an important step towards creating more accessible and inclusive learning environments for children.

“For sixty years, EBM has believed that nourishing Pakistan means nourishing all of it,” said Dr. Zeelaf Munir, Managing Director and CEO of EBM. “That means creating opportunities for every child to learn, grow and realize their potential. The Discovery Room is a reflection of that belief by bringing together science, play and therapeutic learning to create an environment designed around the strengths of neurodiverse children. We are proud to partner with NOWPDP and The Dawood Foundation on an initiative that demonstrates how thoughtful collaboration can make learning more inclusive, engaging and accessible.”

Inspired by experiential learning, the Discovery Room adapts interactive science exhibits into therapeutic learning experiences that support sensory integration, executive functioning, motor development and social interaction. Designed through a neuro-inclusive lens, the space enables children to achieve developmental milestones while building confidence, independence and a lifelong curiosity to learn.

Omair Ahmed, Chief Executive Officer of NOWPDP, said: “True inclusion is built on sustainable infrastructure. The Discovery Room at our NOWPDP Korangi Facility stands as a premier example of how corporate commitment can create physical pathways for equity and learning. We are incredibly grateful to EBM for stepping forward as the core donor for this space. By investing in this infrastructure, EBM has not just funded a room, they have partnered with us to build an environment that honors dignity, fosters interactive learning, and ensures children of all abilities have an equal space to thrive.”

The initiative reflects the shared commitment of EBM and NOWPDP to advancing inclusive education and creating learning environments where children with disabilities have greater opportunities to learn, participate and thrive.