TAXILA: Attock on Thursday claimed to become the first district in the country to secure Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) certification for school teachers.

According to a statement, the certification programme aimed to equip teachers with the skills and knowledge to deliver cutting-edge STEM education to students.

“This initiative is a significant step toward preparing the youth of Attock for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century,” the statement read.

Addressing the ceremony, Dr Meezanur Rehman, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) expert, said that STEMp21 was a globally recognised organisation dedicated to promoting STEM education and equipping educators and students with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century.

Speaking at the ceremony, Assistant Commissioner (AC) Attock, Anza Abbasi said the STEM certification programme was just the beginning. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that every child in Attock has access to quality education and the tools they need to succeed in a technology-driven world.”

She was of the view that the importance of IT skills is increasing day by day and is one of the most powerful forces shaping the world today.

“We want students of the district to be equipped with such skills”.

While addressing as chief guest at the certificate distribution ceremony among the successful teachers, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Attock, Rao Atif Raza said that it is the goal of the district administration to transform Attock into an IT hub by empowering children with the skills of the future. He said that the collaboration with STEMp21 underscored the district’s commitment to fostering innovation and creativity among its students.

He stated that by integrating STEM education into the curriculum, Attock is setting a new standard for educational excellence in Pakistan.

He was of the view that by introducing STEM education and providing access to advanced technology, “we are laying the foundation for a generation that will lead Pakistan into the digital age”.

He said, “This certification is a testament to our commitment to excellence in education and innovation.”

He said the district administration had established state-of-the-art IT laboratories in 150 different government schools across Attock under the “Learn and Earn” initiative with a sum of Rs250 million”.

These labs will provide students with hands-on training in programming, AI and robotics, ensuring they are well-prepared for the digital future, he said and added that STEMp21 will further support this initiative by providing robotics kits to schools, enabling students to engage in practical and innovative learning.

Published in Dawn, March 21st, 2025