
Empowering Futures: APWA's Educational Endeavors
APWA Karachi currently operates six schools under the leadership of Mrs. Rukhsana Saleem, Vice President Education, and Ms. Rozina Khuwaja, Project Director. These schools cater to marginalized children living in remote and underprivileged areas of Karachi, ensuring access to quality education in environments that support learning, growth, and well-being.
Project Leads
Mrs. Rukhsana Saleem
(Vice President Education)
A retired Federal Secretary to the Government of Pakistan, Mrs. Saleem's extensive background includes a Masters in Public Administration from Harvard University and a Masters of Arts in International Relations. Her commitment extends to being an Executive Committee Member of the Federation of Business and Professional Women, with consultancies for the Asian Development Bank.
Mrs. Rozina Khuwaja (Education Project Director):
A qualified educator with an M.ED in Teacher Education, Mrs. Khuwaja served as the former Academic Head at Aga Khan Education Services Pakistan (AKESP).
Mrs. Rashida Kiran Adil (Supervisor for Infrastructure):
Qualified MA in Urdu and currently pursuing her PhD, Mrs. Adil has lent her expertise to various committees in APWA, particularly in the supervision of infrastructural works.
Mrs. Asmat Jahan (Incharge):
A dedicated professional with a B-ED degree, Mrs. Jahan's experience includes being the former Head Mistress at Habib Boys School, currently serving as the Incharge at Korangi School.
Overview
The education projects are designed with a strong emphasis on holistic child development, integrating academics with life skills, creativity, physical activity, and character-building.
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Mission:
To provide accessible, inclusive, and high-quality education for girls and women in Karachi, with a strong focus on skill development, leadership, and empowerment. Through innovative educational programs and community partnerships, APWA aims to break barriers to education, promote gender equality, and nurture the next generation of confident and socially responsible leaders.
Significant Features of APWA Schools:
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Ventilated and clean classrooms
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Qualified and trained Head teachers
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Trained and energetic teachers
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Transparent and unique Assessment Mechanism
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Merit-Based scholarships
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Regular Parent Teacher Meetings
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Separate Early Childhood Education (ECE) setup
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Sports, debate, declamation contests, Spell Ithon, Arts, and craft activities​
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School Infrastructure Development:
APWA has campuses across Karachi, each contributing to the educational needs of marginalized children in underprivileged areas:
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Ayesha Siddiqa Campus
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B-1 Area Liaqatabad Campus
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Orangi 10 Campus
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Yousuf Goth Campus
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Korangi Campus
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Sadiqabad Campus
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Educational Initiatives and Impact
APWA’s education programs address the evolving needs of women and children through structured academic learning, digital integration, and skill development.
Key Focus Areas
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Quality, curriculum-aligned education
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Inclusive learning environments
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Life skills and personal development
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Leadership training and civic awareness
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Community engagement for sustainability
Impact and Achievements
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Hundreds of children provided access to formal education
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Enhanced digital literacy through tablet-based learning
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Workshops and awareness sessions on gender equality and human rights
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Scholarships and financial assistance for deserving students
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Highlights of the Year – Education Initiatives
Human Rights & Education Advocacy
On December 10, 2023, APWA National celebrated the 75th UN Human Rights Day, emphasizing education as a fundamental human right. Distinguished speakers, including the Managing Director of Sindh Education Foundation (SEF), highlighted the role of quality education in promoting freedom, equality, and justice. Mementos were presented to outstanding staff members in recognition of their dedication.
Digital Learning Initiatives
In collaboration with Teach the World Foundation (TTWF) and Sindh Education Foundation (SEF), APWA introduced tablet-based learning, enhancing student engagement and bridging the digital divide.
Creative Expression & Awareness
To mark International Women’s Day, APWA students participated in a Poster Exhibition at Karachi Arts Council, showcasing their perspectives on women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Infrastructure Development
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Renovation of existing school buildings
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Inauguration of newly constructed school facilities
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Improved classroom environments for effective learning
Teacher Training & Capacity Building
Teacher training programs were conducted in collaboration with EIDU, TTWF, and SEF, focusing on digital accelerated learning and modern teaching methodologies.
Student Well-being & Support
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Milk and nutrition support by Nestlé Pakistan
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Health and hygiene awareness sessions by Dettol
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Distribution of textbooks and workbooks by SEF
Community Engagement
APWA organized a Schools Staff Recreation Day to recognize educators’ efforts and strengthen team morale, reinforcing a culture of appreciation and collaboration.
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Challenges and Future Goals
Despite continued progress, APWA faces challenges including limited funding, social barriers, and resource constraints. Moving forward, APWA aims to:
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Expand schools in remote and underserved areas
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Strengthen digital and blended learning programs
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Enhance partnerships with public and private institutions
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Introduce STEM education for girls
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Further improve infrastructure and teacher capacity
Looking Ahead
APWA remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering women and children through education. By integrating innovation, technology, and community participation, APWA continues to shape futures, nurture leadership, and create pathways toward social equity and sustainable development.