KARACHI: The Sindh Education Foundation (SEF), Government of Sindh, is successfully operating 35 people’s schools across the province, enrolling over 25,000 students and creating a thriving academic community. These schools are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, providing a conducive environment for learning. The SEF has achieved this milestone in just two years.
This progress was discussed by Managing Director SEF Abdul Kabir Kazi at the ‘PSP Annual Conference for Performance Review,’ held at a local hotel in Karachi on 11-November-2024.
Kazi noted that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the SEF was entrusted with this important task, and within a short period, it has achieved significant results. He emphasized that the Government of Sindh recognizes the vital role organizations like SEF play in ensuring quality education across the province, with the People’s School Programme (PSP) as a key focus area.
“We were initially tasked with reaching an enrollment of 400 students per People’s School, yet just last week, a newly inaugurated school in Dhoronaro enrolled 500 students. This success is driven by the learning environment, well-equipped infrastructure, and comprehensive facilities we provide. Soon, we will also begin teacher training in these schools,” Kazi added.
Kazi further shared that the SEF has introduced Chinese language classes in 100 schools and has held discussions with the UAE ambassador to begin Arabic language instruction, addressing the demand for Middle Eastern language skills among students pursuing higher education and careers abroad. “Our target is to bring 300,000 out-of-school children into the education system within the next two years,” he stated.
Director of Programmes and Planning Nisar Banbhan stated that it is the SEF’s mission to provide every child with access to quality education, as it is their fundamental right. He emphasized that attending reputable schools should not be a privilege reserved for the elite.
Instead, the SEF aims to create an educational environment that mirrors the standards of reputable schools, making this dream achievable for every child. The PSP initiative is a prime example of the SEF’s commitment to this mission.
Nineteen implementing partners of 35 People’s Schools presented their presentations and shared their experiences how they are creating impact in the communities through education. The conference was attended by partners, stakeholders from different organizations, SEF officials and educationists.
A partner from Ghazali Foundation, Jawad Mirani, said that “People’s School is truly a dream come true for around 25,000 people in our community. It’s not just a place of learning; it’s a symbol of hope and change.” They went on to explain how the school is much more than an educational institution.
Published in News Daily on 12-November-2024.