On April 25, 2024, in Quetta, a significant milestone was reached in the endeavor to enhance educational infrastructure and accessibility in Balochistan province. Ms. Kanni Wignaraja, the UN Assistant Secretary-General, Assistant Administrator, and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific at UNDP, inaugurated the newly renovated building of the Government Girls High School (GGHS) in Killi Qambrani, District Quetta.
Photo: Shuja Hakim/UNDP Pakistan
The Government Girls High School, Killi Qambrani, now stands as a testament to collaborative efforts, with its renovation made possible through the generous support from the Chinese International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), facilitated by UNDP. This endeavor is part of a broader initiative aimed at renovating 43 schools across four districts in Balochistan, ultimately benefitting over 8,000 students, predominantly girls.
The inauguration was attended by Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative, UNDP Pakistan, and Mr. Arif Hussain Shah, Joint Chief Economist, Planning and Development Department, Government of Balochistan, alongside representatives of UNDP, the school administration, faculty, and students from GGHS, Killi Qambrani.
Photo: Shuja Hakim/UNDP Pakistan
Addressing the audience, Ms. Fareeda Qazi, Principal of GGHS, extended a warm welcome to the UNDP delegates and guests, expressing gratitude for their invaluable support. Students showcased their appreciation through performances, highlighting the transformative impact of the renovation work, which includes the provision of essential amenities such as solar energy systems, furniture, classroom refurbishments, and vibrant school wall paintings, significantly enhancing the learning environment for over 850 girls.
Mr. Arif Hussain Shah, Joint Chief Economist at the Planning & Development Department of the Government of Balochistan, reiterated the government's steadfast commitment to advancing education, particularly for girls, underscoring the crucial role it plays in the province's development.
Ms. Wignaraja highlighted the urgent need for investment in girls' education in Balochistan, emphasizing its transformative potential in empowering young women socially and economically. She applauded the dedication of teachers and administrators in overcoming challenges to deliver quality education.
The event concluded with a visit to the school gallery, showcasing artworks by talented students.
Photo: Shuja Hakim/UNDP Pakistan
The renovation of the Government Girls High School, Killi Qambrani, was made possible through the "Balochistan Sustainable Development Goals Accelerated Delivery Project,” funded by the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund of China, with a contribution of $2 million. Please click here to learn more.
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