Balochistan’s Chief Minister (CM) Sarfraz Bugti, has issued directives for the dismissal of around 2,000 teachers across various positions due to consistent absenteeism. This decision emerged from a session of the education department led by CM Bugti, with a primary focus on tackling the prevalent issue of teacher absenteeism, addressing the inefficiencies within educational institutions, and implementing reforms in the provincial education sector.

In an effort to combat the shortage of teachers in schools, the chief minister has instructed the appointment of teachers on a contractual basis. The responsibility of finalizing the termination process for absent teachers within a two-month timeframe has been assigned to the chief secretary Balochistan.

Furthermore, discussions during the meeting encompassed topics such as the literacy rate in the province, the allocation of necessary resources to public educational institutions, and the hurdles encountered by the education system.

A decision has been taken by the provincial government to introduce biometric attendance systems in educational facilities. The initial phase of this pilot project will commence in Dera Bugti and Musakhail districts, with plans for expansion to other districts in subsequent stages.

CM Bugti has directed relevant authorities to integrate representatives from local bodies into district education groups to ensure teachers adhere to their designated schedules. He emphasized the elimination of all forms of interference, including political influences, from the education department, emphasizing that appointments of teachers and officers would be solely based on merit.

Participants were briefed during the meeting about the educational landscape of the province, which comprises approximately 80,000 teachers and 7,000 single-room schools. However, concerns arise as approximately 3,300 schools were reported to be non-functional.

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In a recent seminar held at Punjab University (PU), Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood emphasized the pivotal role of teachers and students in shaping the positive character of Pakistan’s economy. The seminar, organized by the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences to commemorate Pakistan Day and promote a Tree Plantation Campaign, saw the participation of esteemed guests including MNA Shaista Parvez Malik, MPA Kanwal Liaqat, and various faculty members alongside a large student body.

Addressing the audience, Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood underscored the importance of sacrifices beyond warfare, stressing the need for a collective spirit to navigate Pakistan through its current challenges. He highlighted the significance of research conducted within educational institutions, asserting that the country’s development hinges upon the quality of scholarly endeavors. Prof Dr Mahmood expressed confidence in Pakistan’s defense capabilities and urged the youth to channel their efforts towards national progress, affirming that guided by proper mentorship, they could enhance the global standing of the Pakistani passport.

Shaista Parvez Malik, in her remarks, extolled the indispensable contribution of teachers to societal development and called for unified efforts to address Pakistan’s challenges. She advocated for a culture of positive thinking to counteract societal discord and emphasized the importance of inclusivity, particularly advocating for women’s participation across all sectors. Malik pledged to address student grievances concerning transport and hostel facilities at Punjab University.

Echoing similar sentiments, Kanwal Liaqat voiced optimism about the youth’s potential to drive Pakistan’s development and emphasized the responsible use of social media as a tool for national betterment. She called for civility in political discourse and urged critics to engage constructively in shaping the political landscape.

Dr Muhammad Saleem Haider commended the diverse contributions of Punjab University students to various fields and emphasized the educational significance of events like the Pakistan Day celebration and tree planting campaign. Preceding the seminar, competitions including quizzes, speeches, and national song performances were organized to engage students actively.

Concurrently, an awareness walk organized by Punjab University’s Institute of Geography highlighted the importance of environmental conservation, with Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood and Director Prof Dr Isma Younis joining faculty members, students, and employees in planting saplings as part of the plantation campaign.

The seminar and associated events underscored the University’s commitment to fostering a spirit of national responsibility and environmental stewardship among its academic community, echoing a broader call for collective action towards a prosperous and sustainable Pakistan.

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In a significant move towards addressing the challenge of out-of-school children in Pakistan, Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Takmil – Teach A Kid Make Individual Life. The agreement aims to foster cooperation and facilitation in bringing out-of-school children into the education network, marking a pivotal step towards inclusive education.

The signing ceremony, held at AIOU, saw the presence of notable figures including Dean of the Faculty of Education, Prof. Dr. Fazal ur Rahman, Director of Coordination and Follow-up, Prof. Dr. Syed Amir Shah, Chairman of the Department of Distance, Non-Formal and Continuing Education, Dr. Muhammad Ajmal Chaudhry from AIOU, and Dr. Sania, a board member from Takmil.

Under the MoU, Allama Iqbal Open University pledges to extend educational and technical support to facilitate the enrollment of out-of-school children into the educational network. This support encompasses teacher training, conducting sessions for master trainers, and aiding in organizing educational activities.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Fazal ur Rehman highlighted the significance of tangible actions over mere paperwork. He emphasized the commitment of AIOU to ensuring that MoUs translate into meaningful benefits for the community, particularly addressing the challenges faced in educating out-of-school children.

Dr. Syed Amir Shah reiterated the importance of enrolling out-of-school children as a noble cause and exemplary community service. He underscored the vision of Vice Chancellor, AIOU, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mehmood, emphasizing the university’s dedication to ensuring every child has access to education.

Dr. Sania, representing Takmil Foundation, shared insights into the organization’s efforts to provide free basic education to out-of-school children, particularly in remote areas of Pakistan. With the support of AIOU, Takmil aims to enhance its outreach and serve these communities more effectively.

Dr. Ajmal highlighted AIOU’s commitment to providing technical and capacity-building support, along with teacher training, to the 160 schools operated by Takmil. Dr. Tahira Bibi provided context to the MoU, emphasizing its significance in addressing the pressing issue of out-of-school children.

The collaboration between AIOU and Takmil signifies a concerted effort towards achieving educational equity and ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to learn and thrive. With combined expertise and resources, the partnership is poised to make a substantial impact in reshaping the educational landscape of Pakistan.

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