TIMES REPORT
PESHAWAR:International Literacy Day was commemorated at the University of Peshawar through a provincial-level ceremony highlighting collective efforts to promote literacy, expand access to education, and address the challenge of out-of-school children (OOSC).
The ceremony was graced by Honourable Minister for Elementary & Secondary Education Mr. Arshad Ayub Khan as Chief Guest. Mr. Qaisar Alam, Managing Director ESEF KP; Mr. Tashfeen Haider, Special Secretary, Elementary & Secondary Education Department KP; Mr. Jaffar Mansoor Abbasi, Director Education; Mr. Anwar Iqbal, Director Operations NCHD KP; representatives of UNHCR, DOSTI, Khwendo Kor, Handicap International and other partner organizations, along with education officials, teachers, students and media representatives, attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, the Honourable Minister emphasized that education and literacy are fundamental to social development, economic prosperity, empowerment and a peaceful society. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving literacy, addressing out-of-school children and ensuring equitable access to quality and inclusive education. He stressed that achieving these goals requires sustained commitment, innovation and strong collaboration among all stakeholders.
Director Education Mr. Jaffar Mansoor Abbasi highlighted key measures being undertaken by the Education Department to improve education quality and expand learning opportunities across the province. The vision of a “Literate and Prosperous Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” was also presented, followed by a panel discussion on “Literate Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” focusing on challenges, opportunities and collaborative strategies.
A major highlight was the launch of the Provincial Each One Teach One (EOTO) Policy and the Out-of-School Children Survey Scorecard at District Peshawar, aimed at strengthening community participation in literacy and evidence-based identification and enrolment of out-of-school children.
Certificates were awarded to personnel who contributed to the OOSC survey, while shields were presented to distinguished partner organizations and stakeholders in recognition of their support for literacy and education initiatives. NCHD also organized a dedicated stall showcasing its literacy and education initiatives and achievements. Director Operations NCHD KP Mr. Anwar Iqbal received a shield from the Honourable Minister for Elementary & Secondary Education in recognition of NCHD’s contribution and support to literacy and education initiatives.
The ceremony concluded with a visit to exhibition stalls showcasing the interventions, achievements and educational initiatives of government departments and partner organizations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Leave a Reply