Sardar Hassan Phore – E-learning School
The E-Learning School in the small village of Sardar Hassan Phore, located in the Balochistan province’s District Lasbella, is now fully operational, bringing a transformative change to this remote community. Known for its trophy hunting of Ibex, the region is characterized by its rugged terrain, sparse rural housing, and a population of approximately 600 people. Previously, the absence of an educational facility meant that local children had limited opportunities for formal learning, with literacy rates stagnating at just 54.5%. The introduction of this school marks a critical step in bridging the educational gap.
For generations, the primary sources of income for the villagers have been guiding and assisting in hunting during the summer months and coastal fishing in the winter. While these traditional livelihoods remain integral to the community, the new E-Learning School presents a promising future by equipping students with knowledge and skills beyond their immediate environment.
Our objective was to enhance the learning environment for students through an e-learning medium, while also integrating a curriculum that includes wildlife conservation principles and their benefits to the community. The location of the new school is two kilometers (a mile and a quarter) from Hingol National Park, one of the largest and most biodiverse parks in Pakistan. Situated northwest of Karachi, the park is home to wildlife such as the Blandford urial, Sindh ibex, and chinkara gazelle. Although the park was established in 1988, its wildlife protection has been suboptimal. To address this, a hunting-conservation program began in the park in 2022, with the expectation that local communities adjacent to the park will soon benefit economically from the program. In Pakistan, a “park” is more akin to a reserve or protected area, emphasizing sustainable use of resources. The curriculum at the new school fosters an understanding of the value of environmental and wildlife conservation. Once the hunting-conservation program in Hingol National Park is fully established, the school in Phore will be sustained through revenues generated by this initiative.
By collaborating with Akhuwat, the Rowland Ward Foundation has successfully implemented an educational program that is already yielding positive outcomes. Essential equipment, including a solar-power system, desks, chairs, a smart TV, a laptop, and stationery have been successfully delivered and installed. The classroom is now fully equipped with modern resources, creating an engaging and structured educational setting. This model allows a licensed teacher in the main town of Karachi to instruct students, while a teacher’s assistant manages the onsite classroom.
The impact has been immediate and substantial. Both students and facilitators have reported an improved educational environment, characterized by increased engagement and productivity. Currently, there are 37 students enrolled, with an impressive 80% daily attendance rate. This project marks a significant step toward bridging the educational gap in this remote village, providing students with the tools and opportunities necessary for a brighter future.
