As an Aerospace Engineer, I always thought world revolved around hi-tech industry especially related to the field of aviation. But as I ventured into the world of Philanthropy, I’ve realized that world is much bigger than that. The problems confronting the humanity are vast and varied, but still way less cumbersome than the solution to governing partial differential equations of Aerodynamics. The resolution of problems confronting humanity creates much bigger impact than say combating technical issues related to re-entry of space vehicle into the earth’s atmosphere. This realization, in essence, has enabled me to refocus my energies towards Society for Audiological and Developmental Ailments (SADA). This refocus has actually resulted into my transformation from “Swift Retort” mode to “Enduring Response” regimen. Let me assure you that here we are dealing with hi tech solutions to the problem of hearing impairment. I consider it a great honour to be the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SADA.
According to the statistics available with World Health Organization (WHO), around 466 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss. It is estimated that by year 2050 over 900 million people,including around 65 million children, will have disabling hearing loss. It is also estimated that 60% of childhood hearing loss is due to preventable causes. To address this, early detection and appropriate intervention is of paramount importance.
Hearing loss not only impacts an individual’s ability to communicate with others, but also has social, emotional and economic impacts on the entire family and the society. In developing countries like ours, children with hearing loss and deafness rarely receive decent schooling.
At SADA, it is our endeavor to work with all stakeholders towards early detection, intervention and need based schooling of the effected children so as to enable their placement in mainstream educational institutions and help them become productive members of the society. I look forward to continued support of our esteemed donors, guidance of Executive Body and Steering Committee, cooperation of parents and most importantly dedicated efforts, innovative approaches and new strategies put forwarded by my colleagues in achieving SADA’s long term as well as short term goals.
Air Commodore (R)
Inam Ul Haq Raja, SI(M)
CEO – SADA