The World Bank has granted worth $129.99 million to the federal government in order to help improve the education system in Sindh.
On Wednesday, the agreement of grant $130 million for primary education in Sindh was signed by Economic Affairs Division additional secretary Zulfiqar Haider on behalf of the government while WB was represented by its country director Najy Benhassine. Chief Economist Dr Naeem Zafar attended the ceremony on behalf of the Sindh government.
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According to a statement issued by the federal ministry of economic affairs, the project financing includes concessional loan of $100 million by the World Bank and Education Sector Plan Implementation Grant of $29.99 million by Global Partnership for Education (GPE). Besides, an additional GPE Multiplier Grant of $24.78 million would shortly be made available to enhance geographical coverage of the project.
Moreover, the aim of this World Bank funded project for education is to improve reading skills of early grade primary students and increase student retention in primary schools in selected 10 districts of Sindh.
In addition, SELE through Classroom Transformation Project aims to improve five core elements of learning ie prepared learners, effective teaching, learning focused inputs, safe and inclusive school space, and a well-managed education system to end learning poverty.
Minister for Economic Affairs Omar Ayub Khan, who witnessed the signing of the agreement thanked the World Bank for its support during increasing health and socio-economic challenges the country is facing. The minister stressed that equal opportunities in education, for both girls and boys, must be ensured at all levels.
He claimed that the provision of quality education was among the top priorities of the government as it was essential for the socioeconomic development and prosperity of a nation.
In the end, the World Bank team reiterated its commitment to continue technical and financial support to the Government of Pakistan for priority.
