Syed Ali Shah, Education Desk:
Quetta – In a creative effort to bridge the education gap in far-flung areas, Balochistan’s education authorities have rolled out innovative mobile initiatives that are literally taking books and science experiments directly to children’s doorsteps.
Working in partnership with UNICEF, the provincial education department has introduced Book Vans and Science Rides across 14 districts. These mobile units, which started as basic mobile schools, have now transformed into vibrant moving libraries, interactive learning centers, and fully equipped science labs on wheels.
The projects are currently active in Zhob, Qila Saifullah, Loralai, Pishin, Chaman, Quetta, Lasbela, Hub, Gwadar, Jaffarabad, Kachhi, Kech, Jhal Magsi, and Nushki. While the Book Van operates province-wide, the specialized Science Ride is successfully running in Jaffarabad district.
Special appreciation goes to Naqeeb Khilji, Program Manager of the UNICEF-funded Education Sector Plan (ESP), whose dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless efforts played a pivotal role in successfully launching and scaling this impactful program.
Officials say these mobile units have sparked fresh enthusiasm among children in areas where traditional schools are scarce or distant. By promoting reading habits and hands-on scientific exploration, the initiative is helping nurture curiosity and a love for learning among young students who previously had limited access to quality educational resources.
Local students have warmly welcomed the project. “We get to explore so many interesting books right in our village. I bought several books on different subjects,” shared Zainab Shambay, a young student. Many children and parents are now hoping the program expands to more districts across Balochistan.
This UNICEF-supported effort is being hailed as a practical and effective step toward making education more accessible and engaging in some of the province’s most underdeveloped regions.
