The number of deprived children in Pakistan who are unable to attend school has exceeded a staggering 20 million, according to Allama Iqbal Open University Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Naseer Mahmood.
In a recent visit to the Multan region, he expressed the university’s determination to address this issue by launching a serious campaign to include out-of-school children in the educational network.
During the visit, Dr. Naseer Mahmood provided guidance and instructions to tutors, resource persons, and students regarding the upcoming Fall 2023 semester admissions. The aim is to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to education. To support this cause, the university plans to offer concessions in admission fees for deserving and underprivileged students.
“The mission to increase literacy rates and provide education in underdeveloped areas of the country is of utmost importance to us,” emphasized Vice-Chancellor Dr. Naseer Mahmood. He further highlighted the university’s commitment to addressing the educational needs of low-literacy areas and various districts in southern Punjab.
During his visit, the Vice-Chancellor inaugurated a state-of-the-art computer lab in the Multan region, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and technological skills among students. This initiative is part of the university’s broader efforts to equip students with the necessary tools for success in the modern world.
Furthermore, the university plans to extend special considerations to the children of Pakistani armed forces martyrs, acknowledging their sacrifices and providing them with opportunities for education.
Addressing tutors, resource persons, and students, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Naseer Mahmood emphasized the collective responsibility of all university stakeholders in ensuring that no child is left behind. “You are all ambassadors of the university, and it is our collective duty to ensure that every child receives the illuminating light of education,” he stated.
Tutors and resource persons, in response, assured the Vice-Chancellor of their unwavering commitment to the cause. They pledged to spread the message of admissions for the Fall 2023 semester to every household in the region, ensuring that no child is deprived of the opportunity to learn and thrive. The admission for Fall 2023 starts on 15 July 2023.
As efforts intensify to tackle the educational challenges faced by deprived children in Pakistan, Allama Iqbal Open University’s initiative to include out-of-school children in the educational network brings hope for a brighter future, promising greater access to education and opportunities for all.
