Karachi, The Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development (AKU-IED) announced the launch of a new 1.5-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) program on January 24, 2024, coinciding with the UNESCO’s sixth International Day of Education.

According to The Aga Khan University, the BEd program aims to address the critical issues in Pakistan’s education sector, including disparities in educational standards, gender inequality in access to education, inadequate school facilities, and a shortage of qualified teachers. The program is designed to enhance the capabilities of aspiring teachers and those in the early stages of their careers.

Professor Farid Panjwani, Dean of AKU-IED, emphasized that the program is intended to have a significant impact on education by improving teacher status, increasing employability in both public and private sectors, offering international opportunities, and raising the overall quality of teaching and learning. He stated that the program is more than just an academic pursuit, as it aims to set a standard of excellence in teacher development that can contribute to educational advancements in Pakistan and beyond.

A notable feature of the BEd program is its flexibility, catering to individuals who are currently employed full-time or part-time. The program includes practicums where student teachers will gain hands-on experience in various schools, which is a critical component of their educational journey.

Associate Professor Kim Insley from the Institute of Education at University College London commended AKU-IED for developing a program that empowers teachers to address classroom challenges, fostering critical thinking and reflective practices.

The launch of the BEd program is in response to concerning trends in Pakistan’s education landscape, including poor student learning outcomes, the vital role of quality teaching, and the lack of formal training for many schoolteachers in the country.

This initiative aligns with recent government commitments to enhance teacher quality, as evidenced by policies like the 2023 teaching license policy in Sindh. AKU-IED’s new program is part of its broader commitment to improving access to quality education, consistent with all its academic offerings.