Karachi, The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is set to collaborate with the Sindh government on the construction of flood-affected school buildings and the initiation of a nutrition program. This development followed a meeting between Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, American Consul General Mr. Conrad Tribble, and USAID Pakistan Mission Director Ms. Kate Somvongsiri.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, the meeting focused on expanding USAID’s involvement in the education sector within the province. Chief Minister Shah expressed gratitude towards USAID for its ongoing contributions and advocated for increased support in rebuilding educational institutions devastated by recent flooding.
Ms. Somvongsiri confirmed USAID’s commitment to partner with the Sindh government for the rehabilitation of flood-affected schools. A plan for this reconstruction effort is to be developed and finalized in coordination with Chairman P and D Najam Shah.
The Sindh Basic Education Program (SBEP), a USAID initiative, has already seen the construction of 104 schools across 11 districts, with 103 schools operational and serving 63,969 students, including 18,911 girls. The SBEP’s goal is to boost and maintain student enrollment at primary, middle, and secondary levels, ensuring a conducive learning environment.
Furthermore, Ms. Somvongsiri expressed USAID’s interest in contributing to the Maternal Child Nutrition Program, a move welcomed by Chief Minister Shah, who noted that the provincial social security department would be involved in these efforts. He directed his secretary Rahim Sheikh to facilitate coordination between USAID and the Department of Social Security to advance the nutrition program.
Mr. Tribble offered his congratulations to Syed Murad Ali Shah for his third term as the Chief Minister of Sindh, signaling continued support and cooperation between the United States and Sindh in addressing educational and health challenges.
Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has lauded the Reko Diq mining project as a transformative initiative for Balochistan’s development, emphasizing its potential to catalyze economic growth in the province and beyond. During a meeting with Barrick Gold Corporation’s CEO, Mark Bristow, the Prime Minister discussed the project’s impact and future infrastructure developments aimed at maximizing Balochistan’s mineral wealth.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Reko Diq project, a significant mining venture involving Barrick Gold, is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to Balochistan. Prime Minister Sharif underscored the project’s capacity to herald a new developmental phase for the region, highlighting its role in enhancing the local economy and the well-being of its residents.
The Prime Minister and the Barrick Gold delegation explored potential expansions of the collaboration, including additional investment opportunities in Balochistan’s mineral sector. A proposal was made for a joint venture to establish a Technical University in Chaghai to support local education and skill development, aligning with the region’s growing industrial needs.
During the meeting, the delegation briefed Prime Minister Sharif on the project’s progress, noting that the feasibility study is expected to conclude by year-end. The project prioritizes employment for local and Balochistan domicile holders, reflecting a commitment to community development and inclusion.
Furthermore, Barrick Gold’s initiatives under its corporate social responsibility have already had a tangible impact, with the establishment of three schools and vocational training programs near Reko Diq, benefiting a hundred individuals, including women.
The Reko Diq project stands as a significant investment in Pakistan’s future, with the government pledging to support infrastructure improvements to facilitate this and other investments, promising a brighter economic horizon for Balochistan and its people.