KARACHI: In a bid to enhance the quality of education in the province by strengthening teachers’ capacity, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has launched the second phase of the English as a Subject for Teachers and Educators (EaSTE-II) programme.

Launched in collaboration with the British Council, the initiative was described as a landmark effort to embed continuous professional development within the education system, ensuring that every child in Sindh has access to quality teachers, quality learning and quality opportunities.

The launch ceremony, held at CM House, was attended by Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah, Deputy British High Commissioner in Karachi Lance Domm, British Council Pakistan (BCP) Country Director James Hampson, Regional Director Sarah Rogerson, as well as numerous educators and experts in the field of education.

Addressing the ceremony, the chief minister said EaSTE-II builds upon the achievements of the first phase and is set to benefit 30,000 newly inducted primary and early childhood teachers, 1,000 trained mentors and 35 course leaders across the province.

The programme aims to equip teachers with essential professional skills and confidence from the outset of their careers, establishing a sustainable model for continuous learning.

“Education is the cornerstone of progress in any society, and in Sindh, we are committed to empowering the very individuals who shape the future — our educators,” said the chief minister.

The chief minister underscored the importance of English language proficiency, describing it as a global skill that facilitates access to knowledge, technology, research and international opportunities. “By empowering our teachers, we are enabling countless students to compete globally while remaining proud of their cultural and linguistic identity,” he added.He reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating closely with the British Council and the British government.

He commended the innovative training model under EaSTE-II, which incorporates digital self-learning modules, hybrid and online sessions, and communities of practice for peer learning. He noted that Unesco had recently recognised Sindh’s teachers as “Creative Teachers” for their innovative use of artificial intelligence alongside traditional folk wisdom in classrooms.

The education minister also spoke at the event, emphasising the role of language skills in enhancing learning outcomes. “A child who learns a language well learns every other subject better. Language is not just a subject; it is the bridge to knowledge, to thinking, to expression,” he said.

BCP country director stated that the EaSTE programme is an online CPD initiative designed to enhance the English language teaching skills of educators.

Published in Dawn, September 4th, 2025