In the month of March, we celebrate women who are doing extraordinary work in their respective fields. This week we feature two dedicated educationists who are spreading knowledge in Karachi’s underdeveloped areas – Lyari and Ranchore Line. Read on…
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Pakistan grapples with one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children globally; a staggering 22.8 million young minds denied access to education due to financial constraints. This crisis perpetuates a cycle of inequality and impedes progress. Despite facing multiple hurdles, including natural disasters and institutional neglect, there are remarkable individuals whose unwavering commitment to education transforms lives. At the forefront of this battle are women like Mrs Najma Malik and Mrs Mahpara Rizwan, whose tireless efforts epitomise the spirit of empowerment and change.
In the heart of Karachi’s forgotten alleys, Mrs Najma Malik, a retired education officer, waged a silent revolution. For the past four decades this visionary educationist has been spreading awareness and knowledge in areas like Lyari and Ranchore Line. To her credit, she has established 5 model schools in Lyari and Ranchore Line and has developed innovative teaching methodologies - breaking barriers of access and quality. Her initiatives, including interactive learning and community engagement, set benchmarks for educational excellence. During the devastating floods of 2010, Mrs Malik’s selfless efforts shone through as she volunteered to support affected women and children, setting up temporary learning centres and providing crucial psychosocial support. Recognising the impact of her work, the North Area Education Project (NAEP) by the British Council adopted her initiatives as lessons to be learned and replicated, underscoring her pioneering role in transforming educational practices. Not only in 2010, even in the recent unprecedented floods in 2022, Mrs Malik played a significant role in restructuring education sector in Sindh and brought a meaningful change in the marginalised communities of Karachi.
Similarly, Mrs Mahpara Rizwan is a beacon of hope in her jurisdiction, spearheading initiatives to uplift educational standards. Since the 1990s, Mrs Rizwan has been instrumental in enlightening young minds. As the first trainer of Parent-Teacher Associations (PTA) in Sindh, she empowered teachers and transformed five model schools, enriching the learning experience for countless children. Even in the face of adversity, such as the 2010 floods, Mrs Rizwan fearlessly stood by her community, organising training sessions and navigating challenges to ensure education prevailed. Her bravery was evident when she confronted armed opposition to establish temporary schools in flood-affected areas, undeterred by threats and risks. Since then, Mrs Rizwan has emerged as a dedicated educationist who has brought a positive change in hundreds of lives through her relentless efforts.
Both Mrs Malik and Mrs Rizwan encountered numerous obstacles on their journey, from confronting drug lords in school premises to mobilising communities amidst crisis. Their unwavering dedication and love for their nation propelled them forward, inspiring generations to dream beyond their circumstances. Through their visionary leadership, both Mrs Malik and Mrs Rizwan not only established model schools but also encouraged and mobilised the local community to be actively involved in the educational process. Recognising the crucial role of parents in shaping a child’s educational journey, they took initiatives to create a promising environment conducive to learning. By fostering partnerships with parents from diverse professional backgrounds, including doctors, carpenters, teachers, and other essential vocations, they ensured that the needs of every child were met comprehensively. These committed volunteers (who are mostly parents) played a pivotal role in supplementing classroom learning, providing mentorship, and addressing the socio-economic challenges that hindered educational attainment. Their collective efforts transformed schools into vibrant hubs of learning and opportunity, where every child could thrive and realise their full potential. The success of this collaborative approach was evident in the tangible improvements observed in student outcomes and community engagement - setting a precedent for inclusive education practices nationwide.
Yet, amidst their remarkable contributions, these unsung heroes often remain overshadowed by larger-than-life figures. As Pakistan grapples with an education emergency, it is imperative to recognise and celebrate the resilience of individuals like Mrs Malik and Mrs Rizwan. Their stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the indomitable spirit of Pakistani women.
As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let us honour these unsung heroes who defy the odds and champion the cause of education. Their legacy reminds us that true heroism lies not in fame or fortune but in the silent, relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow for all. Let us pledge to support and emulate their efforts, ensuring that every child in Pakistan has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and realise their full potential. In the narrative of Pakistan’s history, let the voices of these unsung heroes resonate, for they are the architects of a brighter, more inclusive future.
Qurat-ul-Aine is a development professional. She can be reached at quratmudasar@gmail.com
