BECS Enrolls Over 10,000 Out-of-School Children in Pakistan

In recent years, Pakistan has faced a significant challenge with out-of-school children, a situation that has raised concerns about the future of education in the country. The government has recognized the importance of addressing this issue, as education is a fundamental right and a key driver for national development. In a commendable effort, the Directorate General of Basic Education Community Schools (BECS) has taken substantial steps to tackle this problem.

According to recent reports, BECS has successfully enrolled over 10,000 out-of-school children in the federal capital. This achievement was made possible through the implementation of a zero out-of-school campaign, which has also led to the establishment of 373 non-formal schools in the area over the past year. Hameed Khan Niazi, the Deputy Secretary Admin at the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, shared these insights during the inaugural ceremony of the newly-established "Operations Block" at the BECS head office.

The event was not only a celebration of the achievements of BECS but also a moment to bid farewell to Hameed Khan Niazi, who has played a pivotal role in these initiatives. The ceremony welcomed Sikandar Masood as the new Director General of BECS, marking a new chapter in the organization’s mission to enhance educational access for all children.

During his address, Niazi emphasized the government's commitment to increasing the enrollment of out-of-school children, stating, "The future of our country lies in the education of our children." He credited the success of enrolling over 10,000 children to the dedication and professionalism of the BECS officers and staff, who have worked tirelessly to make this initiative a reality.

Sikandar Masood, the new DG BECS, expressed his determination to continue the mission of his predecessor. He assured that the Directorate would expand the coverage of non-formal schools to reach even more out-of-school children. "The government will leave no stone unturned to achieve this noble cause," he added, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in addressing educational disparities.

Other attendees, including Dr. Shahid Soroya from the Directorate General of Religious Education, Tahira Sheikh from the Pakistan Institute of Education, and Murad Ali Mehmand from the National Book Foundation, also praised BECS for its achievements. Their collective support underscores the importance of collaboration among various educational institutions to ensure that every child has access to quality education.

The efforts of BECS to enroll out-of-school children are a significant step towards building a brighter future for Pakistan. Education is not just about filling classrooms; it is about empowering the next generation to become informed, responsible citizens. As the government and educational bodies continue to work together, it is crucial for society to support these initiatives, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow. The journey towards universal education is ongoing, but with dedication and commitment, a positive change is within reach.