KARACHI – In a landmark development for the educational landscape of Sindh, the provincial government, in partnership with the British Council, has officially launched the second phase of the “English as a Subject for Teachers & Educators” (EaSTE-II) programme. This initiative is set to train 30,000 newly inducted primary and early childhood teachers across the province, a move hailed as a crucial step towards enhancing the quality of public education.
The launch ceremony, held at the Chief Minister House, saw the presence of key figures, including Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah, along with British Council Country Director James Hampson. The programme’s objective is to equip teachers with professional skills and confidence at the start of their careers, creating a sustainable model for continuous learning.
Under the EaSTE-II initiative, not only will 30,000 teachers receive training, but the programme will also cultivate 1,000 mentors and 35 course leaders. This tiered approach aims to establish a robust framework for professional development within the education system. The training methodology is a blend of digital self-learning modules, hybrid classes, online sessions, and peer learning networks, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for educators.
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah described the initiative as a milestone, emphasizing that education is the foundation of progress. He highlighted that the programme is fully aligned with Sindh’s Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Model 2022 and the Early Childhood Care & Education and Foundational Learning Policy 2024. The initiative prioritizes female teachers, minority groups, and educators with disabilities, underscoring a commitment to inclusive education. It is projected to directly benefit close to two million schoolchildren in public schools.
Education Minister Sardar Ali Shah stressed the importance of language skills as a bridge to knowledge. He said the initiative is more than just an English-language project; it’s a step towards unlocking learning in every classroom by empowering teachers with the tools to teach effectively and in ways that respect the linguistic and cultural realities of their students.
The British Council’s Country Director, James Hampson, reiterated the council’s commitment to the people of Sindh, stating that the EaSTE programme is designed to strengthen educators’ English language skills and is a significant step towards a shared ambition of supporting teachers and students.
This collaboration builds on the success of a similar programme in Punjab, where EaSTE has already enhanced the skills of over 140,000 educators. The partnership reflects a shared dedication to combining global expertise with local insights to create a scalable and lasting impact on teacher development.
