Gender Equality Pakistan Project #12323

Take a Stand for 5,500 Girls in Pakistan

by Human Development Foundation (HDF)

Project Report | Oct 14, 2014
The Remarkable Achievements of Aqsa

By Human Development Foundation | Project Leader

Aqsa in front of her school

HDF is thrilled to share the story of a remarkable student, Aqsa, who scored the highest marks on her Board exams in her district!

Aqsa is 15 years old. Her father is a carpenter who earns approximately $150 per month, supporting a household of 10. She has seven siblings, and her parents’ utmost focus has been on providing a comprehensive education to all of their children- boys and girls alike. Aqsa’s father placed confidence in HDF’s Formal School Basti Khandoo in Rahim Yar Khan where all of his children are currently studying except for his eldest son, who graduated from the same school.

Aqsa has been studying in HDF’s School from nursery school, and has always claimed the highest scores in every examination at the school. Following her outstanding performance, she aced the recent matriculation exams in the Humanities Group and proudly stood 1^st place in the overall board. She was awarded with a gold medal honoring her determination and exemplary dedication to education, and a cash prize of $150. She will also be receiving a laptop from the Government of Punjab. HDF is proud of this stellar student’s achievements, as she is the prime example of how education can truly open the door to a brighter future!

Community awareness and student enrollment campaigns were initiated in Aqsa’s community through HDF’s Social Mobilization Program. Nearly half of primary school age children are not enrolled in school and among eligible girls, 3/4 are out of school in Pakistan. (Data from UN 2012 Report).

Over 55% of HDF students are girls. We have established schools in marginalized communities to transform lives for the better. HDF has been doing groundbreaking work in Rahim Yar Khan for the past 13 years. Through our programs and projects in this region, over 345,000 people have ensured that themselves and their future generations are able to overcome the debilitating effects of poverty. Over 1,700 students receive an education yearly in this program region, and our hope is to provide a prosperous future for girls like Aqsa. The sky is truly the limit!

Aqsa with her family

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