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A programme from Pakistan wins 2023 UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize for empowering nomadic children
In the realm of literacy and education, some programmes stand out not just for their impact but for their sheer innovation and dedication to addressing the evolving needs of a world in transition. The Himalayan Literacy Network (THLN) Mobile Schools Programme is one such example, and it has rightfully earned recognition as this year’s winner of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes.
The story of THLN's Mobile Schools Programme began in 1998 when a visionary Bakarwal elder, Haji Mian Nizam Din, realized that providing basic education to nomadic Bakarwal children required a revolutionary approach. He believed that the solution was to develop mobile schools that could travel with them on their biannual migrations through the high mountain regions. With this vision, he sought assistance from Wayne Losey, an SIL linguist, and several Bakarwal community members who shared his passion. Together, they created a groundbreaking educational model and curriculum that allowed Bakarwal students to start their schooling in their mother tongue, Gojri, progress to Urdu, and achieve literacy in English by the end of the fifth grade.
Today, the world is undergoing rapid transformations, and the Bakarwal community is not immune to these changes. The population explosion in Pakistan is pushing them away from their traditional nomadic lifestyle, making it imperative for Bakarwal children to acquire the skills needed for a sedentary future. Instead of leaving them vulnerable to economic exploitation and cultural marginalization, THLN equips these children with academic skills, perspectives, and dignity, allowing them to embrace change without losing their distinct identity and cultural-linguistic heritage.
Schools on-the-go
The impact of THLN's Mobile Schools Programme goes far beyond literacy. It empowers isolated nomadic children with an understanding and positive attitude toward the broader society and nation they will soon become a part of. Over 4, 000 Bakarwal students have learned to read and write, significantly impacting a community fighting for cultural and economic survival. The Mother Tongue Based (MTB)/Multilingual Education (MLE) model allows Bakarwal communities to stabilize their economic position and cultural identity while confidently interacting with the majority cultures around them. Despite remote locations without electricity or internet access, THLN uses offline recordings and solar-powered equipment to deliver education. They are also exploring app-based solutions for future technological advancements. THLN actively invites all interested Bakarwal communities to join their mobile schools programme, ensuring inclusivity in remote and marginalized areas. The programme integrates literacy skills with broader issues like environmental awareness, social justice, and cultural understanding, preparing students to navigate a rapidly changing society.
The real success of THLN's Mobile Schools Programme lies in the transformative impact it has had on individuals and communities. Ghulam Qadir, a community member, expressed how the programme enabled his children to access education without leaving their nomadic lifestyle. Shazia, a young student who became a teacher, is keeping the dream of education alive for her community, ensuring a brighter future for all. Muhammad Nazir, a THLN supervisor, highlights the bright future of female students who will play a crucial role in educating future generations.
As THLN moves forward, they have set ambitious goals, such as increasing enrollment by 50%, developing portable and digitized literacy and numeracy components, launching a "Master Teacher" development programme and piloting the programme in neighboring countries.
On International Literacy Day, THLN sends a powerful message of encouragement. They thank their supporters and partners for making their dream a reality and urge us all to work together for a better future. Their commitment to promoting education for all, especially through mother tongue education, inspires us to strive for a world where every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive.
THLN's Mobile Schools Programme proves that education can truly transform lives, communities, and societies. It's a testament to what can be achieved when innovation, dedication, and a commitment to preserving culture and heritage come together to create lasting change.
