Certificate Distribution Ceremony for “Each One Teach One” Literacy Program Held at RWU

In a significant step towards combating illiteracy in Pakistan, Rawalpindi Women University successfully concluded the “Each One Teach One” literacy program and held a certificate and shield distribution ceremony for participants. The initiative was organized in collaboration with the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) and Save Our Society (SOS) Foundation, under which university students provided basic literacy education to 149 illiterate individuals.

As part of the program, NCHD provided learning kits to nine focal persons at the university. Under their supervision, 68 students were trained in the first phase and 81 students in the second phase. These trained students subsequently imparted basic Urdu and Mathematics literacy skills to a total of 149 illiterate individuals. Examinations for the beneficiaries were conducted at Rawalpindi Women University, and successful learners were awarded certificates during the ceremony. Shields were also presented to the focal persons in recognition of their contributions.

The chief guest of the ceremony, Mr. Ali Asghar, Director General, National Commission for Human Development, appreciated the university and its students for their valuable educational services. He stated that promoting literacy is both a national and moral responsibility, adding that Islam also encourages the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge. He further announced that the Commission would provide all possible resources and institutional support to achieve its target of raising the national literacy rate to 70 percent over the next five years.

Speaking on the occasion, Malik Azhar Mahmood, Executive Director Leads University Lahore, highlighted that approximately 27 million children in Pakistan remain out of school, while the literacy rate is increasing by only one percent annually. He stressed the need to raise this growth rate to three to five percent and described the “Each One Teach One” model as exemplary. He also announced that Leads University would initiate similar literacy interventions.

Dr. Huma Rauf, Registrar, Rawalpindi Women University, stated that the university is ready to extend full support for expanding the program so that the concept of “Each One Teach One” may evolve into “Each One Teach Ten,” thereby accelerating the pace of literacy promotion. She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to playing an active role in educational and social service initiatives.

Ms. Khadeeja Saeed, Director Student Affairs, highlighted the objectives and implementation phases of the program, describing it as a structured effort to strengthen students’ sense of social responsibility and to bring marginalized segments of society into the national mainstream through education.

Mr. Abdul Salam, Director, SOS Foundation, also addressed the gathering and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the university administration, organizers, and participants. He thanked all stakeholders for their dedication to the success of the initiative.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the chief guest distributed certificates and shields among the participants and focal persons. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue collaborative efforts for the promotion of education and the eradication of illiteracy in Pakistan.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were representatives from NCHD, SOS Foundation, Dar-e-Arqam Schools, and Leads University Lahore.