ISLAMABAD: Federal Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood held a meeting with the World Bank’s new Country Director to Pakistan Mr Najy Benhassine on Monday in Islamabad.
Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood said distance-learning program in present circumstances due to COVID-19 is the highest priority of his ministry. Federal Secretary Farah Hamid Khan and Additional Secretary Mohaiyyuddin Ahmed Wani were also present.
He further has said they are enhancing the abilities to develop online content, increasing the use of technology in education, developing a mechanism to reach teachers and students, and improving internet access for students and educational institutions.
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The minister stated a child not being taught in the language which he could understand was one of the main reasons behind high percentage of learning poverty in Pakistan, and the Single National Curriculum would largely address this issue.
The Ministry of Federal Education and World Bank are working closely in many areas and the global lender also has provided $5 million under Education Emergency Program which was helpful in starting a dedicated TV channel ‘Tele-school’ by the ministry.
Education Minister congratulated the World Bank Country Director on his appointment and conveyed his best wishes for his new assignment in Pakistan, reiterating that cooperation and collaboration between both sides would be further enhanced.
Highlighting his priorities in Pakistan, the World Bank Country Director Mr Najy Benhassine stated that he held his meeting with the education minister which reflects the importance of education for him.
