In a significant step towards transforming the education landscape of Balochistan, UNESCO has secured the Global Partnership for Education’s (GPE) System Capacity Grant (SCG) of USD 1.331 million. This initiative is set to enhance foundational learning outcomes at the Early Childhood Education (ECE) and primary levels, aligning with the Government of Balochistan’s priority to reform the provincial education system. The Balochistan Partnership Compact (2024-2028) underscores the need for strategic policy reforms, increased investment, and gender-responsive approaches to ensure equitable and quality learning for all children.

Mr. Antony Kar Hung Tam, Officer-in-Charge of the UNESCO Office in Pakistan, highlighted the commitment of UNESCO in working closely with the education stakeholders to foster an inclusive, equitable, and efficient education system in Balochistan.

As the Grant Agent for the SCG, UNESCO will leverage its expertise to address capacity gaps focusing on the following areas of intervention:

1. Strengthening policy frameworks to support equitable and quality learning;
2. Implementing gender-responsive institutional policies and professional development initiatives;
3. Improving collaboration among education stakeholders for resource efficiency and knowledge sharing; and
4. Establishing a robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) mechanisms for data-driven decision-making.
    

UNESCO’s approach will be comprehensive and multi-faceted, ensuring long-term sustainability through a well-structured strategy. Leveraging technical expertise from UNESCO’s International Institute of Education Planning (IIEP), a key focus will be on stakeholder engagement, actively involving education authorities at both the provincial and district levels to foster a sense of ownership and ensure the continuity of reforms.

Aligning policies with global standards, UNESCO will work on revising the existing ECE framework to meet international educational benchmarks, ensuring a modern and effective learning environment.

Capacity development will be another cornerstone, with targeted technical assistance and specialized training programs designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of education personnel.

To support evidence-based policymaking, the initiative will emphasize data-driven decision-making by improving the accuracy and reliability of education-related data, enabling better monitoring and evaluation of progress.

Additionally, UNESCO will strengthen partnerships by collaborating with key education sector groups to optimize resource utilization, enhance strategic planning, and foster a more cohesive and sustainable educational ecosystem in Balochistan.

With the support of GPE’s System Capacity Grant, UNESCO is committed to addressing capacity gaps, strengthening governance, and enhancing learning outcomes, this initiative will lay the foundation for a brighter future for the province’s children, ensuring they acquire the skills needed for lifelong learning and development.