Dr. Saira Saleem is a remarkable example of courage, determination, and academic excellence. Blind by birth, she transformed what many perceive as a limitation into a powerful source of strength, emerging as a leading academician, researcher, and advocate for persons with disabilities.

She holds a Ph.D. in Assistive and Information Technology from the University of Karachi and has been serving in the Department of Special Education, University of Karachi, since 2005. Currently, she is working as an Assistant Professor, where she plays a pivotal role in teaching, research, and academic leadership.

Dr. Saleem holds several key academic and administrative responsibilities. She is a Departmental Student Advisor, Member of the Departmental Research Committee (DRC), Member of the Board of Studies, and Member of the Board of Faculty. She also serves as the Departmental Focal Person for both the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialization (ORIC) and the Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC). In addition, she is actively involved in supervising M.Phil. and Ph.D. research theses, contributing significantly to the development of future scholars in the field of special education.

Her academic contributions are extensive. Dr. Saira Saleem has published more than 20 research papers in well-reputed national and international journals. She has also organized two national and two international conferences at the University of Karachi, demonstrating her leadership in promoting research culture and academic collaboration. Moreover, she has organized, conducted, and participated in numerous workshops, seminars, and conferences at local, national, and international levels.

Beyond academia, Dr. Saleem is a resource person at Allama Iqbal Open University and has previously served as a Lecturer at Hamdard University. She is also a motivational speaker, trainer, and social activist, deeply engaged in the disability rights movement. For many years, she has been working with various non-governmental organizations to advocate for the rights, education, and employment opportunities of persons with disabilities.

Dr. Saira Saleem’s life journey truly reflects the theme “From Blindness to Light.” Her achievements illuminate the path for countless individuals, proving that vision is not limited to sight—it is born from purpose, perseverance, and passion. Through her work, she continues to inspire students, educators, and society at large, redefining ability and empowering inclusion.