The remarkable transformation of an entire region can be attributed to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of a solitary individual. Gilgit-Baltistan, a land adorned with rugged mountains and breathtaking landscapes, has emerged from a past plagued by the absence of even the most basic necessities of life. Recent years have witnessed a series of initiatives that have breathed new life into this promising region, igniting a beacon of hope for other provinces in Pakistan. It would not be surprising if, in the future, this once-troubled land gives rise to a genius akin to Bill Gates.
During my recent visit to Gilgit-Baltistan, I had the privilege of witnessing something I had not encountered throughout my extensive 44-year military and diplomatic career—a land where cherished principles are embraced. Faces illuminated with youthful enthusiasm and ceaseless thirst for knowledge can be seen day and night. Mohyuddin Wani, an individual committed to serving the people of this region, embarked on a dream as soon as he assumed the position of Chief Secretary GB. From the outset, he tirelessly toiled to bring this dream to fruition. In a matter of months, signs of Gilgit-Baltistan’s changing destiny began to emerge, leaving an indelible mark on the smiling faces of the students.
Gilgit-Baltistan, a resplendent region of Pakistan, has witnessed the establishment of significant projects aimed at fostering innovation in education and training. The active implementation of these projects has yielded tangible results, even ensuring that schoolchildren receive nutritious meals. To equip the youth with the essential knowledge and skills demanded by the 21st century, computer labs and IT parks have been established. Despite limited resources, this man of unwavering faith from GB has forged important collaborations with both Pakistani and international institutions, leading to educational initiatives encompassing computer education and artificial intelligence. These endeavors have propelled the intellectual development of Gilgit-Baltistan’s children to unprecedented heights, transforming their dreams into joyful realities.
Within a brief span of time, approximately 700 students, the first cohort, have successfully completed their intermediate exams. They now stand prepared to confront the challenges posed by various competitive exams, be it in the military, navy, medical colleges, or esteemed institutions. In order to equip these students for such trials, the Chief Secretary engaged the services of a specialized organization known as KIBS. The primary objective of KIBS is to foster competitive examination skills among students, while the GB Government ardently pursues its core objectives of poverty alleviation, hunger relief, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, renewable energy, economic growth, stable citizenship and society, environmental conservation, and child development. Students receive medical examinations and are provided with meals within the classroom, alleviating any potential health concerns. Even their eyesight is tested. These exemplary measures were facilitated by the Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, who utilized his resources in collaboration with the Health Department—a commendable feat that heralds a revolutionary transformation in the field of education, an area previously overlooked in public schools throughout Pakistan.
The comprehensive education reforms implemented in Gilgit-Baltistan have yielded remarkable results, with school enrollments experiencing a phenomenal 25% increase. The issue of absenteeism, once prevalent among schoolchildren, has become almost non-existent, as the attendance rate has soared to an impressive 95%. Through the provision of nutrient-rich foods, children’s body mass index (BMI) and overall health have significantly improved. Furthermore, those who previously faced challenges in mental and physical development have now triumphed over these obstacles.
In November of last year, a tragic act of terrorism unfolded in Gilgit-Baltistan when extremists set fire to several girls’ schools in Diamer, attempting to hinder female education. Unbeknownst to these terrorists, the Gilgit-Baltistan administration swiftly rebuilt these schools within a mere five days, ensuring the continuity of education for female students. The GB administration has displayed unwavering courage and determination throughout this endeavor, adorning the reconstructed schools with vibrant colors and lights. The residents of Gilgit-Baltistan have rallied together in support of girls’ education, demonstrating a united front against those who sought to weaken the resolve and determination of these knowledge-seeking girls.
Consequently, the surrounding communities, once entrenched in outdated beliefs in Diamer, experienced a paradigm shift in their thinking, resulting in a 100% increase in the number of girls attending schools.
In the remote region of Chilas, the government displayed foresight by re-purposing all jails into girls’ schools. Even the under-construction bungalow of the Commissioner has been dedicated to women’s hostel. The Chief Secretary firmly believes that the architectural design of schools should foster an environment where children can learn with tranquility, surpassing the comfort of their own homes. Such an atmosphere proves to be conducive and effective in advancing education, capturing the hearts of children, who now find solace and inspiration within the school premises.
Amid an era where the significance and relevance of libraries are dwindling, especially within educational institutions, the Gilgit-Baltistan Government remains determined to restore the importance of these invaluable repositories of knowledge. Libraries are being established in all schools, meticulously designed with captivating architecture and vibrant hues. The amalgamation of architectural brilliance and vivid colors within these libraries creates a psychological environment that fosters an unwavering dedication to learning—an unimaginable sight in government schools elsewhere in Pakistan. This dedication has reached such heights that parents are withdrawing their children from private schools and enrolling them in government institutions.
Despite the challenges posed by natural disasters, the local government’s commitment to education remains steadfast. Through collaborative efforts between the government and UNESCO, over 20 schools that were ravaged by floods last year have been urgently reconstructed, ensuring uninterrupted education in the affected areas. Furthermore, an innovative stride has been taken in education by establishing an additional 56 smart schools in the flood-affected regions of Gilgit-Baltistan. Equipped with modern facilities, including computer labs, these smart schools exemplify progress and a commitment to providing the best possible education for the children of the region.
A strong emphasis is being placed on the education and training of teachers in the fields of science, technology, and IT. The rationale behind this focus is straightforward: equipping students with the essential skills required to meet the demands of today’s world. In order to address the educational needs, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has sought the support of the Professional Development Center of Aga Khan University. A partnership is being forged, aiming to train a new cohort of approximately 1,000 educators, all within the confines of the region’s education budget. This initiative is already underway.
Under the insightful leadership of Chief Secretary Mohyuddin Wani, the Gilgit-Baltistan government is spearheading innovative advancements in the educational landscape of the region. Through a comprehensive government policy that encompasses infrastructure development, nutritional provisions, comprehensive training programs, and empowering teachers, Gilgit-Baltistan has embarked on an extraordinary journey toward a brighter and more prosperous future. As the dreams of the region’s inhabitants materialize into tangible accomplishments, the students of Gilgit-Baltistan are revealing their potential to play a leading role in shaping the future of Pakistan.
It is as clear as day that the absence of a system of consequences can disrupt the balance of the universe. Similarly, if teachers are not provided with adequate training, guidance, and consideration for their welfare, the repercussions can negatively impact generations to come. It is imperative that teachers receive their due recognition and appreciation. Chief Secretary Wani devised a formula in Gilgit-Baltistan wherein the top five teachers receive an additional three months’ salary per year, while the remaining educators are rewarded based on their ranks. This system serves to measure their dedication and interest in their work, ensuring that students receive undivided attention from their teachers. Recognizing the shortage of teachers in proportion to the number of male and female students, the Gilgit-Baltistan government swiftly recruited approximately 700 teachers in a mere three-month period through an examination conducted by the Federal Public Service Commission, an example, never seen in other provinces.
While corruption plagues the education, health, and other sectors in many provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan stands as an exception in this beautiful mountainous region of Pakistan. The government has granted autonomy to all teachers, enabling them to make their own administrative and financial decisions. As a result, the funds allocated for school welfare, instead of being managed by the Gilgit-Baltistan government, are entrusted to the principals and head teachers, empowering them to oversee their own financial affairs. These powers have been delegated by the Chief Secretary. Thanks to this arrangement, educational and other issues are promptly resolved through timely decision-making within schools.
In the current era, artificial intelligence and blockchain technology have witnessed a remarkable surge in global popularity. What sets Gilgit-Baltistan apart is its commitment to imparting knowledge of these cutting-edge technologies during secondary education. The region shines brightly with the integration of the latest advancements. Consequently, in the years to come, these students will possess such exceptional talents that they can showcase their valuable skills in artificial intelligence, data science, and blockchain technology on an international stage. Certificate courses have been introduced in these emerging fields, and robotic labs have been established in schools, with funding provided through public-private partnerships. Through these technologies and certifications, not only will these children gain recognition worldwide, but they will also secure respectable employment opportunities for themselves and their families within their homeland. Such exemplary achievements are unparalleled in any other province of Pakistan.
I fervently hope that other provinces of Pakistan will draw inspiration from the educational model of Gilgit-Baltistan in the years ahead and pave the way for the new generation of Pakistan. By doing so, the youth can focus on building a brighter future instead of succumbing to apathy. The objective of constructing smart schools is centered around technology-based education. The Science Technology Education Management System has been implemented in approximately 200 schools in Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, another system has been introduced in GB, aiming to uphold these modern educational principles. Around 1,000 individuals will be recruited through a third party, utilizing the resources provided by the government and the funds from the Department of Education. These individuals, known as Tech Fellows, will contribute to the realization of these objectives.
While many schools in Pakistan struggle to provide basic necessities like blackboards and chalk, Gilgit-Baltistan stands as a beacon of order and progress. Digital smart screens, such as computer-connected boards, have been installed in schools, revolutionizing the learning experience. Students benefit from pre-designed digitalized curricula. In collaboration with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), the government has also established an IT park, empowering students to work in the field of information technology. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, they receive support from the government and AKDN as they pursue their IT endeavors.
In parallel with these advancements, numerous digital hubs have been established to facilitate rapid technology adoption among students. Witnessing the growing dedication and interest of Gilgit-Baltistan’s students, several private institutions have shouldered the responsibility of supporting education. Leading the charge in promoting education is the Aga Khan University, under the guidance of Sulaiman Shahabuddin. Additionally, the University of Punjab, NIST, IBA, Comset, Quaid-e-Azam University, and other institutions have joined forces in this noble cause. Aga Khan University and its affiliated institutions, along with government entities, have taken significant steps to provide educational support to students, encouraging them to venture into entrepreneurship and small business endeavors, thereby empowering the younger generation. This initiative has brought about tangible benefits.
It is truly commendable that Gilgit-Baltistan upholds the principle of equal education without any gender discrimination. Boys and girls receive equal opportunities in the education process, fostering a sense of inclusivity. Previously, in certain areas, parents were hesitant to send their daughters for education. To address this, the Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan took personal interest and introduced the pink bus initiative, which has significantly increased female student enrollment. Even in conservative regions like Skardu and Diamar, parents now proudly send their daughters to school on these pink buses, breaking barriers and defying stereotypes.
Another pleasant surprise is the Chief Secretary’s donation of his home gymnasium to a girls’ hostel, where the girls can prioritize their physical fitness through excellent gym facilities. This gesture has had a positive impact on society. Both male and female students actively participate in extracurricular activities and sports, and teachers prioritize these departments as well, nurturing the holistic development of the students.
Significant progress can also be observed in the health sector of Gilgit-Baltistan. A total of 13 specialists, including the Chief Consultant, have been arranged, along with 60 Senior Consultants, 90 Consultants, and other medical personnel. This achievement was made possible through various initiatives. Furthermore, a mental health helpline has recently been established in collaboration with an NGO, aimed at addressing the rising trend of suicides in certain areas. It is expected that this initiative will lead to a decline in suicide rates in the affected regions. During summer and winter vacations, festivals and activities are organized, attracting participants from outside the region. These events foster an open mindset among children and cultivate their interest in sports. For tourism enthusiasts, a mobile app has been developed to facilitate easy navigation within different areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, tourist police equipped with necessary resources have been deployed, with approximately 435 personnel dedicated to providing convenience to tourists. These efforts are anticipated to propel the development of the tourism sector in the region. Furthermore, children receive education and training on environmental conservation, including gardening, to instill an interest in tree planting. Solar systems have also been installed in numerous schools to ensure a sustainable and reliable source of electricity.
One remarkable aspect that stands out throughout Gilgit-Baltistan is the absence of littering or poor sanitation management, which is not often witnessed in other provinces. The chief secretary’s claim regarding the exceptional sanitation management in Gilgit-Baltistan is undeniably true, as I personally witnessed during my visit. The region has transformed into a clean and vibrant area, setting a shining example for other provinces to follow. This achievement speaks volumes about the commitment and dedication of the local community.
Another commendable initiative in Gilgit-Baltistan is the negligible use of plastic throughout the region. The government has enacted legal changes to ban polythene bags and plastic, resulting in the scarcity of plastic in Gilgit-Baltistan. Unlike other provinces, the sight of plastic on the roads is almost non-existent. Furthermore, the government is providing interest-free loans to empower youth in establishing green businesses. These progressive measures demonstrate that dreams can only become a reality when accompanied by proactive actions.
