RAWALPINDI: Fareezah, a school dedicated to educating out-of-school and underprivileged children, celebrated Universal Children’s Day with an event at its Kotha Kalan, Rawalpindi campus.

The celebration aimed to inspire confidence and creativity among students, many of them come from families employed as domestic help in affluent nearby areas such as Bahria Town and DHA.

The event featured an impressive exhibition of students artwork crafted from recycled materials, reflecting the school’s commitment to fostering both environmental awareness and creative expression.

The celebration shed light on the vital role of education for Pakistan’s youth, especially given that approximately 26 million children across the country are out of school.

Ms Fauzia, Director of Fareezah, addressed attendees on the fundamental importance of education as a right for all children, emphasising Article 25-A of Pakistan’s Constitution, which guarantees free education for children aged 5 to 18.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Ms. Fauzia. “Fareezah’s mission is to create a safe and encouraging environment for children who might otherwise miss out on schooling.

“Our tailored curriculum for primary students ensures that education is accessible and relevant to their needs.”

Fareezah School, which currently relies on individual donations, also welcomed students from NUMS University, who engaged in various activities with Fareezah students. The university students gained hands-on experience in community service.

The event also enjoyed support from representatives of several partner organisations, including, Rozan, Sahil, and Mondelez International, who acknowledged the students’ talents and encouraged them to continue on their educational journey.

Universal Children’s Day at Fareezah highlighted not only the potential within each child but also the transformative power of education, creativity, and community support in paving the way for a brighter future.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2024