By Imtiaz Hussain Abro.

Youth STEM learning festival stresses need for Sindh education policy.

On the second day of the three-day Karachi Youth STEM Learning Festival, speakers emphasized the crucial importance of the Sindh Education Policy during various sessions. Exploring topics such as Education in Emergencies, Quality Enhancement, and Investment in STEM Education, moderator Jawad Mirani pointed out that this subject is often overlooked despite being a significant global concern. Mirani stressed the need for serious attention to address these issues.

During the discussions, panelist Pirbhu Satyani highlighted the impact of the current emergency situation in education, causing disruptions and leaving infrastructure in a critical state. Satyani noted that despite the imminent threat of natural disasters, there is a lack of emphasis on school safety, and children, particularly those from vulnerable communities, continue to face challenges. He expressed concern about the lack of seriousness in addressing these issues, with infrastructure on the brink of collapse.

Educationist Partab Rai Shivani added that there is a deficiency in having a comprehensive plan, and reliance on appeals rather than a structured policy is evident. The absence of a Sindh Education Policy following the 18th amendment, which made education a provincial matter, exacerbates the situation. Shivani pointed out that while short-term projects exist, the lack of sustainability plans is apparent.