A critical Girls’ Education Summit in Kurram, convened by the Social Welfare and Women Development Department in collaboration with Blue Veins, spotlighted the pressing need to reopen girls’ schools amid ongoing security challenges. The summit aimed to assess learning loss, propose alternative educational models, and reinforce the provincial government’s commitment to restoring access to education for girls in the conflict-affected district.
The Girls’ Education Summit in Kurram brought together key policymakers, education experts, community leaders, and youth advocates to explore tangible actions. A strong emphasis was placed on addressing learning poverty and designing resilient education systems that can withstand instability. The focus remained on empowering girls with safe, inclusive, and continuous access to schooling, even in alternative forms when traditional schools remain inaccessible.
Provincial Minister for Social Welfare and Women Development Syed Qasim Ali Shah highlighted that the government recognises the multi-layered impact of the region’s law and order situation, particularly on women and girls. “The girls of Kurram will not be left behind,” he said, reaffirming the government’s intent to not only resolve the education crisis but also rehabilitate the broader socio-economic framework affected by insecurity.
Minister for Elementary and Secondary Education Faisal Khan Tarakai echoed the urgency: “Our priority is clear—open all schools in Kurram, especially for girls. We are also implementing alternative learning platforms to reach those still waiting to return to classrooms.”
Blue Veins’ Programme Manager, Qamar Naseem, reinforced a message of resilience and hope. “The girls of Kurram are strong, not victims. They are capable of rebuilding their futures—with our support and immediate action.”
A young girl from Kurram bravely voiced the collective fear of a forgotten future: “We are not asking for kindness, we are asking for our right. Education is our future, and silence is not an option.”
The Girls’ Education Summit in Kurram concluded with resounding promises from government departments and education officials to take immediate and coordinated steps toward reopening all schools, starting with those dedicated to girls.
