Government Aims to Expand Access to International Education
The Sindh government is working on a plan to introduce O and A Level programmes in public schools across the province, starting with at least one school per district. This major initiative is aimed at giving students from disadvantaged backgrounds access to international-standard education.
Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah shared the plan during a meeting with Uzma Yousuf, the Country Director of Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) in Pakistan, along with other senior officials including Secretary School Education Zahid Ali Abbasi.
The meeting focused on improving Sindh’s education system, with discussions around curriculum development, teacher training, foundational learning, and assessment reforms. Both sides agreed to form a joint working group to develop strategies and practical steps to implement the programme.
Govt to Cover Costs and Train Teachers
Minister Shah said the government is committed to launching Cambridge programmes in public schools and ensuring that students are not held back due to financial barriers. The province plans to subsidise registration and exam fees to increase participation.
“We want to give every talented child an equal chance, regardless of their background,” Shah emphasized.
Uzma Yousuf welcomed the initiative and stressed the need for teacher training and early education reform to prepare students for the rigorous Cambridge curriculum. She assured full support from Cambridge, including capacity building and long-term advisory services.
“Teacher development is a sustainable goal with lasting impact,” Yousuf said, highlighting that systemic improvements from early grades are essential for success at the O and A Level stages.
If implemented successfully, this plan could transform public education in Sindh, bridging the gap between private and public schooling standards.
