News Desk:
Over 1,851 students from 106 public schools in Balochistan participated in the National Achievement Test (NAT) 2023, revealing significant areas for improvement. Released by the Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE), the results show the need for targeted interventions.
Rahila Hameed Khan Durrani, Minister of Education for Balochistan, emphasized equipping teachers to address knowledge gaps and involving head teachers in policy improvements. She also pledged to advance inclusive education and empower parents to collaborate with school management committees.
The NAT, conducted every two years, assesses Grade 4 and Grade 8 students in various subjects. The 2023 survey revealed that 4th graders in Balochistan scored an average of 40 per cent in math, while 8th graders scored 31 per cent. English and Urdu scores were above 50 per cent, aligning with national averages.
Dr. Shahid Soroya, Director General of PIE, stressed the importance of collaboration with the Balochistan Assessment and Examination Commission (BAEC) and the School Education Department, Government of Balochistan (SEC).
Syed Nauman Shah, Special Secretary of the School Education Department, noted the need for commitment and context-specific solutions to address Balochistan’s unique educational challenges. The department aims to improve learning outcomes through capacity-building programs for teachers, focusing on critical thinking skills, and developing innovative teaching methods.
The joint efforts of the Balochistan School Education Department and PIE, with support from the Cambridge Partnership for Education, highlight the importance of data-driven decision-making in educational reform.
