Few years ago life was good for Umar and his family. His father was working in Dubai, earning enough money to send back home and sustain the family. Umar was studying in a government school. But then his parents got separated. Umar’s father had to move back to Pakistan to take care of his old mother, Sultan Zari and his little son. Unfortunately, in Pakistan he couldn’t find any work. Eventually the growing financial problems forced him to take Umar out of school when he was in grade two.
Asma Ihsan teaching at the ALP centre Photo: NRC/ Beenish Javed
Sultan Zari was deeply worried that her grandson, if kept out of school, could end up being an illiterate person like herself and the rest of the family.
According to a report by UNESCO launched this year, Pakistan has more than 5.5 million children out of school, the second highest number in the world after Nigeria.
Then last year Sultan Zari came to know about NRC’s center for Accelerated Learning Program (ALP) in her local community, Nowshera, a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The grandmother immediately got Umar enrolled in the program.
In this center, in a one year period, the children are taught a condensed syllabus approved by the ministry of education which enables them to continue their studies in any government or private school.
At the ALP centre all education material is provided by NRC. Sports goods for kids are also provided to develop their interest in sports. Photo: NRC/Beenish Javed
“My favorite subject is mathematics and I want to become a mathematics teacher one day” says Umar.
This year in September, along with his 19 class fellows, Umar will successfully complete his one year study program. Now he can continue his studies in any government or private school. The learning center has provided him with a platform from where he can return back to school and pursue his dreams.
Asma, Ihsan Umar’s teacher, sees great potential in him.
“Umar got first position in all semesters, he enjoys being in classroom and is highly motivated to pursue his studies” she tells.
Her grandson’s interest in studying has motivated Sultan Zari to continue to support him in his studies. “I am concerned about poor education system in government schools, if I could afford, I will send my grandson to the best school to ensure him a bright future”, she says.
