National Commission for Human Development

No Child Left Behind: Govt Partners with NGOs to Enroll 25,000 Out-of-School Children

📍 Islamabad | March 19, 2026

The Ministry of Federal Education signed an LoU with 8 civil society organizations to accelerate enrollment of out-of-school children under a nationwide campaign.

✅ Target to enroll 25,000 children in ICT within 3 months
✅ Door-to-door surveys & Union Council-level “Carpet Coverage Plan”
✅ Real-time data systems for transparency & tracking
✅ Strong collaboration with partners including JICA, NCHD, PIE & BECS

The initiative reinforces the government’s commitment under Article 25-A to ensure education for every child.

نمایاں کامیابی پر دلی مبارکباد!

نیشنل کمیشن فار ہیومن ڈویلپمنٹ (NCHD) اپنے ایکسلریٹڈ لرننگ پروگرام (ALP) کے ان ہونہار طلبہ و طالبات کو دلی مبارکباد پیش کرتا ہے جنہوں نے فیڈرل ڈائریکٹوریٹ آف ایجوکیشن (FDE) کے جماعت پنجم کے امتحان میں شرکت کر کے پہلی تینوں پوزیشنز حاصل کیں۔

یہ شاندار کامیابی آپ کی محنت، لگن اور علم سے وابستگی کا واضح ثبوت ہے۔ آپ نے نہ صرف اپنے والدین اور اساتذہ کا سر فخر سے بلند کیا بلکہ NCHD کے تعلیمی مشن کو بھی نئی تقویت بخشی ہے۔

آپ کی کامیابی اس بات کا عملی مظہر ہے کہ اگر مواقع میسر ہوں اور رہنمائی درست ہو تو ہر بچہ آگے بڑھ سکتا ہے۔ آپ “No Child Left Behind” کے وژن کے حقیقی سفیر ہیں۔

ہم اساتذہ، والدین اور فیلڈ ٹیموں کی انتھک محنت کو بھی خراجِ تحسین پیش کرتے ہیں جن کی کاوشوں سے یہ کامیابی ممکن ہوئی۔

ہمیں آپ پر فخر ہے۔ اسی جذبے کے ساتھ آگے بڑھتے رہیے اور ملک و قوم کا نام روشن کرتے رہیے۔

— نیشنل کمیشن فار ہیومن ڈویلپمنٹ (NCHD)

Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui Launches ICT-Level “No Child Left Behind” Campaign to Bring Every Child into School
Islamabad: In a landmark step toward strengthening access to education in the Federal Capital, Federal Minister for Education & Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, has officially launched the ICT-Level “No Child Left Behind” Campaign — a focused and time-bound initiative aimed at enrolling every out-of-school child in Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) and ensuring sustainable, quality learning opportunities for all.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Ministry of Federal Education & Professional Training, reflects the Government’s strong commitment to fulfilling its constitutional responsibility under Article 25-A, which guarantees free and compulsory education to every child.
Describing the initiative as “a mission of inclusion and accountability,” the Minister emphasized that the Government will mobilize maximum resources, strengthen institutional coordination, and implement innovative strategies to ensure that no child in ICT remains out of school due to poverty, social barriers, disability, or other challenges. We have planned to identify and bring back maximum children to School within three years.
Under the Federal Action Plan for Out-of-School Children (2025–2030), the ICT-level drive will:
• Conduct comprehensive household-level identification and mapping across Union Councils to accurately register out-of-school children.
• Expand second shifts, Accelerated Learning Programs (ALPs), and alternative education pathways to increase school absorption capacity.
• Deploy digital dashboards and real-time monitoring systems to ensure transparency, accountability, and measurable progress.
• Mobilize parents, community leaders, civil society, and development partners to create shared ownership of this critical initiative.
“This is not merely an announcement — it is an operational and measurable commitment,” the Minister stated. “We will ensure maximum enrollment, sustained retention, and quality learning outcomes. Our goal is clear — maximum exclusion in ICT.”
The Ministry calls upon all stakeholders, including education officials, teachers, media representatives, and community members, to actively support this transformative effort and help secure a brighter future for every child in Islamabad Capital Territory.
Together, we will ensure — No Child Left Behind.

National Commission for Human Development Holds ‘Each One, Teach One’ Orientation in Collaboration with GC University Hyderabad.

The Department of Education at GC University Hyderabad organised an orientation session on “Each One, Teach One” on 24 February at the university in collaboration with the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD).

The session was attended by faculty members and B.Ed students of the department. Prof. Dr. Amjad Ali Arain, Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of promoting literacy through community engagement. Dr. Kamal Ahmed Soomro was also present on the occasion.

The NCHD delegation included Mr. Hamza Khan Lashari, Director Operations Sindh; Mr. Anwar Ali Rajar, Deputy Director Operations; Mr. Waqas Bin Sami; Mr. Mansoor Ali Laghari; and Mr. Faizan Daniyal. The officials briefed participants on the objectives of the “Each One, Teach One” initiative and encouraged students to actively contribute to educational outreach efforts.

Report: NCHD Appreciation Ceremony – District Sujawal
​Date: February 17, 2026
Location: Sujawal, Sindh
Organizer: National Commission for Human Development (NCHD)
​Introduction
​The National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) Sujawal organized a prestigious Appreciation Ceremony to honor the tireless efforts of educators and volunteers dedicated to the cause of literacy and community development. The event brought together district officials, educationists, and local leaders to celebrate academic milestones and the spirit of volunteerism.
​Program Highlights
​Opening and Cultural Tributes
​The ceremony commenced with a soulful recitation of the Holy Quran, setting a spiritual and solemn tone for the day. Following the tradition of Sindh’s rich culture, the Shah Jo Raag (Wae) was beautifully presented by Mr. Khuda Dino Tharani.
​In a deeply moving segment, the National Anthem was performed by children from the Morro Markaz Sujawal (Center for Children with Different Abilities), earning a standing ovation for their spirit and inclusivity.
​Welcoming the Guests
​Tablo Performance: A vibrant welcome tablo was performed by the students of Fateh Muhammad Soomro, showcasing the local talent.

​Welcome: Mr. Ghulam Nabi Zaur (DD NCHD Sujawal) delivered the welcome address, thanking the guests for their presence and highlighting the ceremony's objective of recognizing grassroots-level impact.
​Moderation: The proceedings were managed by stage secretaries Mr. Muneer Memon (DD Thatta) and Ms. Ambreen Rahoo, who kept the audience engaged throughout the event.
​Recognition and Awards

​Certificate Distribution
​Certificates were awarded to 90 Teachers and 90 Volunteers for their exemplary service. The honors were presented by a distinguished panel of guests, including:
​Mr. Peeral Chandio (ADC-II)
​Mr. Hamza Khan Lashari (Director Operations NCHD Sindh)
​Mr. Shafi Muhammad Baran (DEO Secondary) & Mr. Arshad Ahmed Memon (DEO Primary)
​Mr. Niaz Memon (Additional Director Social Welfare)
​Mr. Inam (Program Manager RSU)
​Mr. Sajjad Memon (DD UPE Sindh) & Ms. Afshan Soomro (Focal Person Volunteerism)
​Shield Awards
​Special shields were presented to All TEOs (Taluka Education Officers), Senior Headmasters (Sr. HMs), and Mr. Jan Muhammad Jat (Chairman Union Council) for their administrative support and leadership.

​The atmosphere was further lightened by musical performances from the Baboo Baitar School Group and Mr. Hyder Ali Jatoi (District Coordinator, Penny Appeal), who used the power of song to inspire the audience.
​Guest Addresses
​The Chief Guest and honorary speakers delivered powerful messages centered on the future of the district. Key themes included:
​Girls' Education: A heavy emphasis on breaking barriers for female students.
​Retention and Enrollment: Strategies to ensure children not only join schools but complete their education.
​The Power of Literacy: Encouraging the community to view education as the primary tool for socio-economic change.
​
​The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and a collective pledge to continue working toward 100% literacy in District Sujawal. The event served as a vital morale booster for the educators and volunteers who remain the backbone of the NCHD’s mission.

Making sure no child is left behind! ✅
Great things happen when institutions work together for a common cause! 🎓🤝

To pave the way for 100% literacy in Union Council Sihala, Capital University of Science and Technology (CUST) has joined forces with the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD). Our dedicated CUST volunteers have divided the Union Council into 27 zones—covering all 27 villages—and are going door-to-door to identify out-of-school children aged 5-16.

Thanks to this meticulous village-by-village approach, we have already identified 150 children who will now be guided toward educational opportunities with the support of NCHD.

A huge congratulations to the incredible CUST volunteers and the NCHD team for making this happen! Together, we are taking a solid step toward a 100% literate UC Sihala. ✅📚

A grand certificate distribution ceremony was held at Rawalpindi Women University to recognize the contributions of university students participating in the EOTO Programme.

The Director General of National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), Ali Asghar, graced the occasion as the chief guest. The Registrar of RWU, Dr. Huma Rauf, warmly welcomed all the guests and participants.

Addressing the ceremony, Mr. Ali Asghar highlighted the importance of literacy and the ongoing efforts of NCHD. He shared that NCHD has engaged and signed MoUs with more than 100 universities across the country to implement the EOTO Programme, through which thousands of learners have been enrolled to receive literacy instruction.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, certificates were awarded to the students and neo-literates by the chief guest. Certificates and shields of appreciation were also presented to the focal person, faculty members, and NCHD literacy team members in recognition of their dedicated efforts toward promoting literacy in Pakistan.

The event was organized through the collaboration of SOS Pakistan, LEADS University, and Dar-e-Arqam College, in partnership with RWU and NCHD.

NCHD, CUST, and DOPASI Foundation Join Hands to Develop Sehala as a Model Union Council in Islamabad.

Islamabad: The National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) and Capital University of Science and Technology (CUST) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly transform Union Council Sehala into a Model Union Council through an integrated, data-driven, and community-centered development approach. The initiative will also be supported by DOPASI Foundation, which will remain an integral part of the overall theme and implementation framework.

It is pertinent to mention that DOPASI Foundation is already a strategic partner of NCHD and has been actively contributing to community-based development initiatives, particularly in the areas of health, education, and social awareness. Under this collaboration, DOPASI Foundation will extend its technical and operational support to various components of the Model UC initiative.

As part of the program, a comprehensive household-level data collection exercise will be conducted in UC Sehala to develop an evidence-based demographic and socio-economic profile. The population will be segregated by age, education status, and key social indicators to enable targeted planning and effective service delivery.

In the education sector, out-of-school children (OOSC) aged 5–8 years will be identified and enrolled through a multi-channel strategy, including admission into existing schooling facilities within localities, implementation of a voucher scheme, and establishment of new community schools where access gaps exist.

For individuals aged 16 years and above, functional literacy and life skills will be provided through NCHD’s Education for Out-of-School and Over-age Learners (EOTO) Program, aimed at improving literacy, social participation, and economic prospects.

The initiative further includes community awareness and mobilization activities, promotion of a Clean and Green Union Council, civic education, strengthening volunteerism, and implementation of health-related interventions with the support of DOPASI Foundation to enhance overall community well-being.

Representatives from NCHD, CUST, and DOPASI Foundation highlighted that the Sehala Model Union Council initiative will serve as a replicable and scalable model for integrated local-level development in Islamabad and other regions of Pakistan, in alignment with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This tripartite collaboration reflects NCHD’s mandate for human development, CUST’s commitment to community engagement and research, and DOPASI Foundation’s continued role in advancing sustainable social development.

PHDF AND NCHD LEADERSHIP VISIT COMMUNITY SCHOOLS AND ALP CENTRE IN DERA KABIR, E-13 ISLAMABAD

Dr. Nasim Ashraf, Founder of the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), former Chairman, and currently Member of the Pakistan Human Development Fund (PHDF), along with Director General NCHD Mr. Ali Asghar, and Chief Executive Officer PHDF Ms. Mahbooba Razaq visited three Community Schools and an Accelerated Learning Pathway (ALP) Centre in Dera Kabir, Golra (E-13), Islamabad. The visit aimed to review ongoing initiatives for the education of out-of-school children (OOSC) being implemented by NCHD/PHDF under the supervision of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (FE&PT), Islamabad.

During the visit, students warmly welcomed the delegation and presented tableaux and other co-curricular performances, reflecting key social themes and the importance of education. The performances were widely appreciated by the visiting dignitaries and parents present on the occasion.

Teachers and students showcased innovative classroom practices. Ms. Sumaira Kabir, teacher at the Community School, presented low-cost, self-developed lea rning materials, demonstrating how quality education can be delivered effectively with limited resources. The delegation highly appreciated this initiative, terming it a model of innovation and commitment.

Addressing the students and teachers, DG NCHD Mr. Ali Asghar delivered a motivational speech, encouraging learners to pursue education with dedication and confidence, while commending teachers for their role in transforming the lives of marginalized children. CEO PHDF Ms. Mahbooba Azaq appreciated the dedication of teachers and community members and acknowledged the positive impact of Community Schools and ALP Centers in bridging educational gaps.

Dr. Nasim Ashraf, Member PHDF, lauded the overall arrangements and student performances and emphasized that Community Schools and ALP Centers are a sustainable and practical solution for addressing the challenge of out-of-school children in Pakistan, particularly in underserved and hard-to-reach areas.

To recognize outstanding efforts, cash prizes and certificates were distributed among teachers. Additionally, school bags procured by the Ministry were distributed among students, bringing joy and encouragement to young learners.

The visit concluded with renewed commitment from PHDF and NCHD leadership to further strengthen non-formal education initiatives and expand access to quality education for all children across Pakistan.

As a part of Prime Minister’s national literacy initiative “Each One Teach One,” a one-day training session on Literacy Books 2 & 3 for Focal Persons and Volunteer Literacy Teachers was held at Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University of Technology & Skill Development (BBSU-TECH), Khairpur.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Dr. Prof. Rasool Bux Mahar said the training was a key component of ongoing capacity-building efforts aimed at strengthening teaching skills and promoting functional literacy in line with government education priorities. Mr. Haresh Kumar, Focal Person EOTO, urged students and volunteers to take keen interest in eliminating illiteracy from the country.

The training was conducted by officials of the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), Khairpur, including Mr. Mazharuddin Shaikh (Deputy Director), Mr. Raza Hussain Wassan (Assistant Director Literacy), Ms. Paras Gul, and Mr. Sardar Ali Soomro (Field Officers), who provided practical guidance on teaching methods, curriculum delivery, learner engagement, and effective use of literacy materials.

Participants actively engaged in interactive discussions and practical activities. The session concluded with a renewed commitment by BBSU-TECH and NCHD to jointly work for the expansion and sustainability of literacy programs across the district.

MoU Signed Between NCHD and Minhaj University Lahore under “Each One Teach One” Program

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) and Minhaj University, Lahore to strengthen collaboration under the “Each One Teach One (EOTO)” Literacy Program.

The MoU was formally signed by Vice Chancellor Minhaj University Lahore, Dr. Sajid Mahmood Shahzad, and Mr. Ali Asghar, Director General, NCHD. The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Sajid Ali, Director Operations NCHD, along with his team.

The objective of this MoU is to engage university students as literacy volunteers to provide basic reading and writing skills to illiterate individuals in nearby communities. Under the EOTO initiative, each participating student will teach at least one illiterate person, contributing directly to increasing literacy rates through community-based learning.

The Director General, NCHD, emphasized the importance of academic institutions in addressing the challenge of stagnant literacy rates over the past decade. He highlighted that partnerships like EOTO are essential to mobilize youth for national development through education.

The Vice Chancellor Minhaj University Lahore expressed strong commitment to the initiative and assured full cooperation in encouraging students and faculty members to actively participate in the program as part of the university’s social responsibility.

MoU Signed Between NCHD and University of Education Lahore under “Each One Teach One” Program

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) and the University of Education, Lahore to strengthen collaboration under the “Each One Teach One (EOTO)” Literacy Program.

The MoU was formally signed by Vice Chancellor, University of Education Lahore, Dr. Aqif Anwar Chaudhary, and Mr. Ali Asghar, Director General, NCHD. The signing ceremony was also attended by Mr. Sajid Ali, Director Operations NCHD, along with his team.

The purpose of the MoU is to engage university students as literacy volunteers, enabling them to provide basic reading and writing skills to illiterate individuals in surrounding communities. Under the EOTO initiative, each student commits to teaching at least one illiterate person, thereby contributing directly to improving literacy rates.

The Director General, NCHD, highlighted that literacy levels have remained stagnant over the past decade and emphasized the need for innovative, community-based partnerships to accelerate progress. He appreciated the proactive role of higher education institutions in supporting national literacy goals.

The Vice Chancellor, University of Education Lahore, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to social responsibility and pledged full cooperation with NCHD in mobilizing students, faculty, and community stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the EOTO program.

This collaboration is expected to enhance outreach, strengthen volunteer engagement, and contribute toward sustainable community development, while supporting NCHD’s mission to promote education and lifelong learning across Punjab.