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PESHAWAR, Oct 09 (APP):The Elementary and Secondary Education Foundation (ESEF) has officially launched its Virtual Education Program, marking a significant step toward digital learning in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The inauguration ceremony was held at Government Higher Secondary School, Hayatabad here Thursday, with Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shahab Ali Shah as the chief guest.
The event was attended by the Secretary of Elementary and Secondary Education, senior officials of the department and education experts from across the province.
Speaking to the media, Managing Director ESEF, Qaiser Alam, stated that the Virtual School Project is a first-of-its-kind government initiative designed to overcome the shortage of teachers in public middle, high, and higher secondary schools. Through this system, online classes will be arranged for key subjects including English, Urdu, Science, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry from Grade 6 to Grade 12.
He added that all lessons have been developed in accordance with the National Curriculum Policy (NCP) and the provincial syllabus, ensuring equal and quality educational opportunities for all students.
During his address, the Secretary of Education shared that initially, data has been collected from 50 schools across various districts, selected based on student population and shortage of teachers. These schools are being provided with computers, LED screens, and internet facilities to enable online classes. He emphasized that the system is cost-effective and highly beneficial, as it eliminates the need for new infrastructure by utilizing existing educational resources.
Moreover, an online examination system will also be introduced under this initiative, and students will have access to recorded lectures by expert teachers, allowing them to learn from home as well. The department is also conducting teacher training to ensure effective implementation.
Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah described the project as a milestone achievement, predicting that it will revolutionize the province’s education system. He highlighted that the Virtual Teaching Program will ensure equal access to education for both boys and girls, especially in remote areas where teacher availability and school access have long been challenges.
He further expressed optimism that after the successful implementation of the Virtual School in selected districts, the initiative would be expanded across the province, helping to boost literacy rates using limited resources within a short timeframe.