jica delegation visits
|

JICA delegation visits Literacy Centres in Lahore

ByJustpaste.in

LAHORE: A high-level delegation from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) visited Middle-Tech Literacy Centres in Lahore following an invitation from Literacy and Non-Formal Education Secretary Syed Haider Iqbal.

The delegation included JICA President Dr. Akihiro Tanaka, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Shuichi Akamatsu, and JICA Pakistan Chief Representative Yusuke Shinozaki. During the visit, the officials toured literacy centres in Fatah Garh and Tajpura, reviewed the facilities available to students, and observed the teaching and learning activities.

The delegation also interacted with students and distributed gifts among them. JICA representatives further handed over Package E textbooks to students who had completed Package D, enabling them to continue their education and move on to the next stage of their learning journey.

During the visit, Secretary Literacy Syed Haider Iqbal briefed the Japanese delegation on the department’s ongoing initiatives for non-formal education. He highlighted projects being implemented with JICA’s support, along with other programmes aimed at improving access to education for children and young people who remain outside the formal schooling system.

The secretary also outlined the department’s future plans and targets for expanding literacy, strengthening non-formal education and promoting skills development across Punjab.

The JICA delegation appreciated the efforts of the Literacy and Non-Formal Education Department to improve literacy rates and provide educational opportunities to underserved communities across the province. The officials also acknowledged the department’s efforts to equip learners with skills that can contribute to their personal development and future economic opportunities.

The meeting also focused on strengthening cooperation between the Literacy Department and JICA to expand educational opportunities for out-of-school children. Both sides discussed ways to enhance their partnership and explore further areas of collaboration to bring more children into the education system.

The visit underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing educational challenges and expanding access to learning opportunities, particularly for children who have been unable to attend mainstream schools.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Islamabad High Court orders NCCIA officers 

    ByJustpaste.in

      The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a detailed written order directing that officers of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) must not be prevented from carrying out their official duties. The court also maintained its earlier stay order restraining the authorities from taking any disciplinary action against the petitioning employees until further proceedings. The written order was issued by Justice Azam Khan following the hearing of a petition filed by the affected officers. The petitioners, who are contractual employees of the NCCIA, have approached the Islamabad High Court seeking regularization of their employment. They argue that they have been serving the organization for an extended period and should be granted permanent status in accordance with the law. According to the court’s written order, counsel representing the NCCIA authorities requested additional time to submit their formal response to the petition. The court noted that the respondents sought an extension to file their reply before the next hearing. However, the petitioners’ legal representatives strongly opposed the request for further delay. They argued that the respondents had already been given several opportunities to submit their response since the first hearing of the case on February 13. Despite multiple chances, the authorities had failed to place their reply on record within the time provided by the court. The petitioners’ counsel further informed the court that at nearly every hearing, the respondents had sought adjournments on one pretext or another. According to the lawyers, these repeated delays were causing irreparable harm to the petitioners, who continued to face uncertainty regarding their employment and professional responsibilities. Taking note of these submissions, the Islamabad High Court granted the NCCIA authorities one final opportunity to submit their written reply. The court directed that the response must be filed before July 30. The written order clearly states that if the respondents fail to submit their reply by the specified deadline, the court will proceed to decide the case on the basis of the available record without granting any further extensions. The court also made important observations regarding the professional role of the petitioning officers. Justice Azam Khan remarked that it would be unfair to prevent such highly educated and experienced individuals from performing their official duties. The written order emphasized that qualified professionals should not be obstructed from carrying out work assigned to them, particularly while legal proceedings remain pending. Furthermore, the court instructed all concerned parties to ensure that the petitioning officers are allowed to perform their duties strictly in accordance with the law. It directed the respondents not to create any obstacles in the officers’ work or interfere with their lawful responsibilities until the matter is finally decided. In addition, the High Court reaffirmed that the interim stay order protecting the petitioners from disciplinary action will remain in force until the next hearing. This provides temporary legal protection to the employees while the court continues to examine the merits of their petition seeking regularization of service. After issuing these directions, the Islamabad High Court adjourned further proceedings in the case until July 30. The next hearing is expected to determine whether the respondents have complied with the court’s instructions and may also shape the future course of the contractual employees’ plea for permanent employment within the NCCIA.

  • | | | |

    Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei names Bag…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has reshuffled two key positions in the country’s security and political establishment, appointing Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr as his political adviser and former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaei as his representative on the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC). The appointments were announced through messages attributed to Khamenei on social media on Sunday, according to reports, placing two veteran figures with extensive military and political experience in prominent roles at a sensitive moment for Tehran. In his message to Zolghadr, Khamenei cited his “valuable experience” while appointing him as a political adviser. Zolghadr has held several senior positions in Iran’s security establishment and previously served as secretary of the SNSC. The move follows Zolghadr’s departure from the council’s top administrative position. Reports said Rezaei has been appointed to replace him as secretary of the powerful security body, while also serving as Khamenei’s representative on the council. Rezaei is a veteran figure in Iran’s political and military establishment. He served as commander of the IRGC for much of the Iran-Iraq war era and has held a range of senior political positions. He has also previously run for Iran’s presidency. The latest appointments are drawing attention because the SNSC plays a central role in coordinating Iran’s defence, security and foreign-policy decisions. Although the council is formally chaired by President Masoud Pezeshkian, its work brings together senior political, military and security institutions. The timing of the reshuffle is particularly significant as Iran faces continuing pressure over regional security and negotiations surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Recent diplomatic efforts have focused on arrangements for shipping through the strategically important waterway, making changes within Tehran’s security leadership especially closely watched. Both Zolghadr and Rezaei are associated with Iran’s security establishment and have extensive experience in military affairs. Analysts are therefore likely to watch closely for any indication that the appointments could affect Tehran’s approach to negotiations, regional security or relations with the United States. The reshuffle also strengthens the role of figures with longstanding links to the IRGC within the leadership structure. Rezaei had already served as a military adviser to Mojtaba Khamenei before taking on the latest assignment. For Zolghadr, the new position keeps him within the senior leadership circle despite his exit from the SNSC secretaryship. His experience in security and political affairs could allow him to continue playing a role in shaping policy from the Supreme Leader’s office. The appointments come at a critical time for Iran, with international attention focused on Tehran’s security posture and the future of the Strait of Hormuz. Whether the changes represent a broader adjustment in Iran’s negotiating strategy remains to be seen, but the elevation of two experienced security figures is likely to keep Tehran’s next moves under close scrutiny.

  • | |

    Lahore police intensify crackdown on usury, drugs …

    ByJustpaste.in

    LAHORE: Capital City Police Officer Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana has ordered intensified action against criminal activities while directing officers to improve law enforcement and public service delivery across the city. Chairing a meeting to review the performance of the Civil Lines and City divisions, the CCPO was briefed that 21 suspects allegedly involved in illegal moneylending had been arrested during an ongoing crackdown. He directed police to pursue legal action without leniency and ensure that victims receive protection and timely justice. Kamyana also ordered stronger operations against drug trafficking, calling for targeted action to dismantle narcotics networks and arrest those involved in the illegal trade. The CCPO directed officers to identify foreign nationals residing illegally in Lahore and proceed against them in accordance with the law. He also ordered enhanced surveillance of sensitive areas and monitoring of suspicious activities. He further called for continued combing operations and expanded intelligence-led action against elements posing threats to law and order. Stressing the importance of citizen-focused policing, Kamyana instructed officers to resolve public complaints promptly and prevent citizens from being repeatedly sent from one office to another. Senior police officials, including DIG Investigation Zeeshan Raza, DIG Operations Faisal Kamran and SSP Investigation Muhammad Naveed, attended the meeting.

  • | |

    Imran’s sister allowed to meet him at Adiala

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s sister Noreen Niazi was allowed to proceed to Adiala Jail on Tuesday to meet him after the Supreme Court directed authorities to facilitate family meetings. Noreen, along with Imran’s sisters Aleema Khan and Dr Uzma Khanum, reached the Dahgal checkpoint on the road leading to the prison. Police initially stopped all three women but later allowed Noreen to continue towards the jail. The development came shortly after a three-member Supreme Court bench ordered weekly meetings between Imran and his family. The court was hearing petitions concerning his access to relatives and personal physicians, as well as his medical condition. Noreen told reporters before leaving for the prison that she would inform Imran about the Supreme Court’s decision and the efforts made by his supporters. She did not respond when asked whether she would speak to the media after the meeting. Separately, Bushra Bibi’s daughter and sister-in-law were also permitted to meet her at Adiala Jail. The meeting was attended by Musarrat Khawar Maneka and Mehrunnisa, according to jail officials. The Supreme Court’s decision followed medical reports raising concerns about Imran’s fluctuating blood pressure, anxiety and other symptoms. The court said family access should not be treated as a favour and directed authorities to facilitate regular meetings. The court also ordered Imran’s transfer to Shifa International Hospital for treatment. A medical board comprising an eye specialist, general physician and cardiologist will examine him, while his personal physician Dr Faisal Sultan will also be given access. His sister Dr Uzma is to be associated with the medical board. PTI representatives have agreed to comply with the court’s condition that political activity and media statements should not be conducted after meetings with Imran. Speaking at the Dahgal checkpoint, Aleema Khan welcomed the court’s decision and said the family had been demanding Imran’s hospital treatment for months. She also confirmed that Noreen had been allowed to meet him. Aleema rejected allegations that the family was using Imran’s health for political purposes. She said they were raising concerns as his sisters and seeking what they considered to be his legal rights. She further argued that Bushra Bibi should also have received similar relief. According to Aleema, the family had already given its commitment before the Supreme Court that it would not gather outside the prison or hospital and address the media following meetings. Imran’s spokesperson Niazullah Khan Niazi said the PTI founder had a right to meet his family regularly. He welcomed the Supreme Court’s directions and said the party would fully comply with the restrictions imposed by the court. The Supreme Court also directed authorities to arrange telephone communication between Imran and his children and ordered that his medical records remain confidential. The latest medical report submitted to the court stated that Imran had experienced fluctuating blood pressure, palpitations, headaches, restlessness and anxiety. A cardiologist who examined him earlier this month recommended measures to reduce stress, including increased family interaction. A four-member medical board later recorded his blood pressure at 140/80mmHg and recommended walking, relaxation and more frequent interaction with his immediate family and wife. The report said Imran had undergone dozens of medical examinations since his imprisonment and was being monitored regularly by jail medical staff. It also stated that his ECG was normal and that his eyesight had improved following treatment. PTI has questioned the adequacy of the medical reports and continued to demand examinations by Imran’s personal physicians and an independent medical board. The government, however, has rejected allegations that Imran is being denied medical treatment. Government officials have maintained that he is receiving healthcare from qualified specialists and that prison meetings are being conducted according to court orders and applicable law. Imran and Bushra Bibi remain incarcerated at Adiala Jail. The former prime minister has been in custody since August 2023 and is also facing several legal cases.

  • | |

    FBISE unveils SSC 2026 results, 1st time AI assist…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) has announced the results of the Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Part-I and Part-II First Annual Examination 2026, revealing strong overall performance while introducing artificial intelligence (AI) in the paper-marking process for the first time. The results were officially declared during a ceremony in Islamabad, where Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui inaugurated the announcement. Addressing the event, FBISE Chairman Prof Dr Ikram Ali Malik highlighted the Board’s efforts to ensure smooth and transparent examinations. He said a total of 292,831 students appeared in the SSC examinations this year, with 1,006 examination centres established across the country. To oversee the process, 2,012 supervisory staff members and 6,996 invigilators were deployed. The chairman also revealed that more than 10,700 teachers applied to assess examination papers, while 4,855 examiners were selected for the task. He described the introduction of AI-assisted marking as a major step towards improving accuracy and efficiency in the evaluation process. During the examination period, 86 cases involving the use of unfair means were reported. According to the results, SSC Part-I recorded an overall pass percentage of 59.77 per cent, with 88,646 students passing out of 150,077 candidates. SSC Part-II achieved a significantly higher success rate of 91.33 per cent, as 128,070 of the 141,653 candidates cleared the examinations. In the Science Group, Afeera Ijaz secured the top position with 1,089 marks. Amna Nauman claimed second place with 1,088 marks, while Huzaifa Haider finished third with 1,086 marks. Among Humanities students, Fatima Zahra emerged as the overall topper with 1,037 marks. Muhammad Maaz and Manaal Zahid shared second position after each scoring 1,031 marks, while Aneesa Nisar secured third place with 1,023 marks. The Board said the introduction of AI-assisted marking reflects its commitment to modernising Pakistan’s examination system while maintaining transparency and fairness in the assessment process.

  • | | | |

    Dar condemns Houthi attack killing 3 Pakistanis

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has condemned a Houthi attack on a commercial vessel in the Red Sea, saying three Pakistani nationals were killed and another was injured in the incident. Dar described the attack as a serious threat to innocent lives and maritime security. He expressed concern over the loss of Pakistani lives in the incident. The foreign minister said the Pakistani government was in contact with relevant Saudi authorities and the Yemeni government to obtain further details about the attack. He also directed Pakistan’s embassy in Riyadh to provide all possible assistance for the repatriation of the bodies of the deceased Pakistanis. The embassy has also been instructed to facilitate the injured Pakistani citizen and ensure that all necessary assistance is provided. The attack reportedly took place near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a strategically important maritime passage connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden. According to Yemeni government and coast guard sources, Houthi forces attacked a cargo vessel in the area. The attack targeted the deck of the commercial ship. Three crew members were reportedly killed in the assault. The incident has raised fresh concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The waterway is a major international trade route used by cargo vessels travelling between Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Pakistan is continuing to coordinate with authorities in Saudi Arabia and Yemen to establish further details about the incident and assist the affected Pakistani nationals and their families.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *