May 18, 2023 — Today marks a significant milestone in the journey towards empowering out-of-school children in Balochistan as the Pakistan Alliance for Girls’ Education (PAGE) and the Directorate of Literacy and Non-formal Education Department, Balochistan, announce their collaborative partnership. This strategic alliance aims to reach out to marginalized children in four districts of Balochistan, namely Jaffarabad, Naseerabad, Quetta, and Jhal Magsi, by establishing 20 non-formal schools. In pursuit of this shared vision, both entities have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
The MOU was signed in the presence of Mr. Imran Khan, Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Govt. of Balochistan, Mr. Sharif Haider Additional Director Literacy and Non-Formal Education Balochistan, and Mr. Qaiser Jamali Provincial Coordinator JiCA.
The MOU was signed by Mr. Muhmmad Ashraf Gichki Director, Literacy and Non-Formal Education- Balochistan, and Mrs Fajer Rabia Pasha Executive Director PAGE.
The collaboration between PAGE and the Directorate of Literacy and Non-formal Education Department signifies their unwavering commitment to provide quality education and promote gender equality, with a particular focus on empowering girls. Through the establishment of non-formal schools in the targeted districts, the collaboration aims to create inclusive learning environments that cater to the unique needs of out-of-school children.
Key features of this collaboration include:
Establishment of 20 non-formal schools: PAGE and the Directorate of Literacy and Non-formal Education Department will work in unison to set up 20 non-formal schools across Jaffarabad, Naseerabad, and Jhal Magsi. These schools will offer flexible learning opportunities to out-of-school children, with a particular emphasis on promoting girls’ education.
Access to quality education: The collaborative efforts will focus on ensuring access to quality education for all children, including those who have been deprived of formal schooling. The non-formal schools will employ innovative teaching methodologies and provide tailored support to address the specific needs of marginalized children.
Capacity building and teacher training: To guarantee a high standard of education, the collaboration will prioritize the capacity building and professional development of teachers. Training programs and workshops will be organized to enhance their pedagogical skills and equip them with effective strategies to engage and empower out-of-school children.
Holistic support and advocacy: PAGE and the Directorate of Literacy and Non-formal Education will actively advocate for the rights of out-of-school children and create an enabling environment for their holistic development. This may include collaborating with village education committees, local communities, parents, and relevant stakeholders to foster community engagement and support.
Through this collaborative initiative, PAGE and the Directorate of Literacy and Non-formal Education seek to bridge the educational gap and empower the most vulnerable children in Balochistan. By harnessing their collective expertise and resources, they aim to transform the lives of out-of-school children, enabling them to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
