KARACHI: The governing body of the Sindh Employees Social Security Institution (SESSI) has approved Rs2 billion endowment fund to provide medical treatment and welfare support to children affected by HIV.
The decision was made during a SESSI budget meeting chaired by Sindh Labour Minister and SESSI Chairman Saeed Ghani. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Labour Secretary Sajid Jamal Abro, SESSI Commissioner Hadi Bux Kalhoro and other members of the governing body.
Officials said the fund would help provide quality healthcare and financial support to affected children and their families following concerns over HIV cases reported at Valika Hospital.
The governing body also reviewed the recommendations of an inquiry committee formed on the directions of the provincial ombudsman. The committee findings were approved, including the suspension of 37 doctors and paramedical staff and the issuance of show cause notices.
Ghani said the government would ensure a transparent investigation and strict action against those found responsible, “No one involved will be given any leniency,” he said.
He said an inquiry committee was established on Oct. 29, 2025, shortly after the issue came to his attention. He added that authorities initially detected a small number of cases but later screened all children, confirming 78 HIV cases so far.
The minister said investigations were continuing to determine when and how the infections occurred. He added that doctors, paramedical staff and officials who were on duty during the relevant period were being examined as part of the investigation.
Calling the incident a serious tragedy, Ghani assured that affected children and their families would receive continued support.
Meanwhile, the SESSI governing body also discussed the institution’s budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 and reviewed the revised budget for 2025-26. The meeting was postponed until July 17 after members presented suggestions and concerns for further discussion.
