A two-month Early Childhood Development (ECD) training course, the second batch organized by the Afaq Education Training Center in collaboration with the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) Chitral, concluded successfully in Lower Chitral. A total of 35 female ECD teachers participated in the course, which focused on modern, scientific principles for the better mental and physical nurturing and development of young children.
The concluding ceremony was addressed by several dignitaries, including Professor Dr. Hazar Ullah, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Chitral. In his speech, he, along with other speakers, emphasized that Early Childhood Education is a critical foundation for a child's lifelong learning journey. He highlighted that the initial few years are crucial for significant cognitive, emotional, and social development. The speakers stressed that a quality school is defined not by its building but by its excellent, trained teachers who understand child psychology.
The Vice Chancellor and other guests asserted that this workshop will provide schools with better-trained teachers for student instruction, leading to a considerable improvement in the standard of education. They noted that modern research proves the initial years are vital for nurturing a child's learning capacity, and a solid foundation in ECD ensures the child can play an important role in education, work, and society later on. Continuous professional development for ECD teachers was deemed essential. The event concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants and honorary shields to the guests.
