Islamabad, July 8, 2025
The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT) today launched a National Training of Trainers (ToT) Program at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), marking a key step toward strengthening non-formal education (NFE) as an essential and credible part of Pakistan’s education system.
Millions of children, youth, and adults across Pakistan remain excluded from formal schooling due to poverty, distance, or being overage. Non-formal education offers these learners a second chance through flexible, community-based centers that help them acquire essential reading, writing, and numeracy skills.
Speaking at the launch, Federal Secretary for Education, Mr. Nadeem Mahbub, emphasized that alongside efforts to bring the country’s 25 million out-of-school children into education, it is equally critical to recognize NFE as a permanent, valuable pathway to learning.
“Non-formal education is not just a stop-gap—it is a vital part of our education system,” he said. “That’s why the Ministry is increasing budget allocations and introducing reforms in teacher engagement, capacity building, assessments, monitoring, and policy to sustain and grow this stream.”
The ToT program, led by the Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE) with technical support from JICA, brings together master trainers from all provinces who will cascade this learning to teachers nationwide. The training focuses on practical strategies for multi-level classrooms, accelerated learning for older students, community engagement, and digital tools like the E-Taleem Portal and NFEMIS for improved teaching and monitoring.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Muhammad Shahid Soroya, Director General PIE, said:
“We are investing in people who will carry this mission forward. Each trainer here has the power to open doors to learning for those left behind.”
Leaders from NCHD, BECS, NEF, AIOU, and other partner institutions highlighted the central role of NFE teachers and reaffirmed their support for inclusive education. Participants such as Shazia Bano from Gilgit-Baltistan shared:
“This training gives me the confidence and tools to help children and adults in my community who never had the chance to attend school.”
Asadullah Khan from Balochistan added:
“This is about giving hope and new beginnings to those who have been left behind.”
Representatives from NCHD, NEF, FDE, BECS, NIETE, JICA, and the Secretary Delivery Unit (SDU) participated in the event, expressing their commitment to working together to strengthen the NFE system in a coordinated, sustainable way.
In closing, Mr. Nadeem Mahbub reaffirmed:
“Through sustained investment, policy reform, and partnerships, we will ensure every learner has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to Pakistan’s future.”
