Sindh reviews 10 applications to expand adopt-a-school programme

KARACHI: The Steering Committee of the Adopt-a-School Program (AASP) held a detailed review of applications from prospective and existing partners seeking to take over government schools under the initiative in Sindh.

The 25th meeting of the AASP Steering Committee took place at the Sindh Education Foundation (SEF) head office on Wednesday, where members examined a total of 10 applications covering 15 schools across the province.

The scrutiny process was aimed at assessing whether the applicants had the operational strength and a defined plan for sustained improvement in the schools they want to adopt. The review covered both new applicants and organisations already associated with the programme.

Officials said the Adopt-a-School Program continues to serve as an important mechanism for cooperation between the public and private sectors in the education field. They said the initiative is designed to allow credible organisations to run and support government schools in a way that improves educational access and strengthens institutional management.

The officials also highlighted that the programme is intended to support better quality education, improve school governance and create lasting benefits through a sustainable model.

Programme oversight

The meeting formed part of the programme’s ongoing oversight process, under which applications are reviewed before schools are handed over to partner organisations. The latest session focused on ensuring that selected partners are capable of managing schools effectively and pursuing long-term development goals.

15 schools were included in the applications reviewed during the day-long session. These schools are located in different parts of Sindh.

Public-private collaboration

Officials stressed that the AASP remains a key platform for public-private collaboration in the province’s education sector. Through the arrangement, government schools can receive management and support from outside partners considered suitable under the programme’s criteria.

The stated objective of the initiative is to expand access to quality education while also improving the way schools are administered. Officials said the programme seeks to deliver sustainable, long-term impact through partnerships with credible organisations.

The latest review meeting reflects the continuation of that process, with the steering committee examining applications in line with the programme’s stated goals of school improvement and stronger governance.