I started my career way back in 1999 as a teacher. It was a coincidence when I was called in to substitute for a month only and since that day, my journey in the education field never stopped. I have been working for about 24 years now. I have worked in almost all fields of an educational organization, starting from teacher to HR, from coordinator to administrator and lastly from a principal to Regional Manager. My hard work and honesty paid off with a great reward Alhamdulillah. 
 

Q: What is your educational philosophy and how does it guide your leadership as a principal? 

There is no specific formula or one-size-fits to all philosophy in the education system. I believe it’s a mixture of many thoughts and ideas that combine together to bring a positive change. For example, we should priorities the needs, interests and well-being of students. We as educationists should believe that every student has the potential to succeed. 
We must ensure that all students have access to opportunities, resources and support regardless of their background or circumstances. Life-long learning should be provided to both teachers and students and we must value collaboration among teachers, students, parents and the community. 
I believe education goes beyond academics and educators should also focus on social, emotional and physical development of students. We should also understand that challenges and set backs are a part of an educational process and cultivate resilience in staff and students. 

Q: What initiatives/ programs have you implemented during your tenure as principal to improve the overall educational experience for students? 

It’s been a year with ALS now and in this time span I have worked on various aspects starting from an English speaking culture to an updated curriculum and teaching techniques.  
We focused on student-centered classrooms rather than teacher centered.  
English speaking culture was introduced as I believe it’s imperative to learn English to be able to compete the world outside. 
STEM was integrated in the curriculum. There is no emphasis on rote learning, and instead more importance is placed on conceptual understanding. 
The testing system has been improved. Formative and summative assessments are taken to grade students on their understanding of the concept taught. 
We have introduced co-curricular activities, debate competitions and contests to improve students’ confidence.  
Our students are also competing at national level now.  
As far as teachers are concerned, regular pedagogical training sessions are being given. Sessions are taken on mindfulness and mental well-being and teachers trips are arranged to promote positive and healthy work environment.  

 
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing education today and how is your school addressing them?

I think one of the biggest challenges that we face as a nation is low enrollment and high rate of drop outs from schools. This is happening because of the economic crises risen in Pakistan. Even the schools that are being considered the giants of the education industry are shutting down campuses. We, at American Lycetuff DNK, offer an affordable fee package for students and provide quality education. We believe education is for all, whether rich or less privileged.   
Another crucial challenge is gender disparities. In a country like Pakistan, we have a very low percentage of school going girls as compared to boys. We need to educate our society about the need of education for girls. Although we are living in an advanced city and here, girls do go to school but if we look at the larger picture, yes, our country is lacking behind when compared to the outer world. 
Many of our schools lack proper infrastructure, well-trained teachers and updated curriculum which could meet the requirements of the 21st century education. At American Lycetuff DNK, we have many purpose built campuses which have large playgrounds, well-equipped Science and IT Labs and proper cafeterias for students to enjoy their meals during the day. We have a highly skilled Academic Training Department that trains teachers not only in Lahore but in all the major cities where ALS DNK is operating.  
Not only the training department, the Regional Managers and principals also take in-house training sessions to update their teachers according to the 21st century skills.   
It’s a sad and bitter reality that very less percentage of our students have access to digital devices which now have become an imperative part of an educational system. The elite class enjoys the maximum number of facilities including digital technology and this was clearly seen during COVID 19 pandemic. When the entire world shifted to online system, many of our schools could not do so as most of their students did not have the facility of internet or digital devices. I believe here the government needs to step in and provide facilities to less privileged people. Unfortunately very less amount of budget is being spent on education in Pakistan and that’s why we are lacking behind and not even close in the international race towards success. 
 

Q: How does your school measure and promote student success and achievement?  

Measuring students’ success and achievements is a complex task. An effective approach to measure student success should be holistic, taking into account various aspects of students’ development and learning. For example,  
Regular formative and summative assessments are being taken to help gauge a student’s understanding of subject matter. 
Providing academic grades and transcripts on regular basis is another progressive measurement. 
At American Lycetuff DNK, teamwork, communication, problem solving and social emotional skills are an imperative aspect of a student’s success. We do not only focus on academics, but train our students to become a responsible and sensible citizens of the society. 
We promote project-based learning and encourage students to actively take part in extracurricular activities. 

 
Q: How do you foster a strong partnership between the school, parents and local community? 

ALS DNK strongly believes in creating a strong bond with its parent body. Parents are provided regular updates on school activities and achievements through text messages and social media handles. We invite parents for meetings, discuss the challenges faced by the community and try to come up with a solution to play our part. I strongly believe that school and parents should work together for the community needs such as health issues, after school programs, planting trees campaign etc. We have an open door policy for our parents and regular feedback is being taken to improve our standard. 

Q: In what ways has technology been integrated into the learning environment at your school and how has it impacted student learning? 

All our campuses are well equipped with smart boards, LCDs, projectors, IT and Science labs. These digital devices are used on daily basis and are a part of our curriculum and planners. Students watch educational videos, solve worksheets on smart boards and learn computer knowledge which is the most common and imperative demand of the 21st century. Access to this system and devices has helped students gain confidence and knowledge. Visual aids have always helped students learn in a positive way and with hands on experience of latest digital devices and technology, students get a better understanding of the concept taught. 

 
Q: Is there any advice you would like to offer to aspire educators or fellow principals based on your experience? 

The most important thing an educator should remember is that we need to learn to be leaders and not bosses. We should play our part in creating a positive and healthy work environment to improve teacher retention. New and improved pedagogical techniques should be introduced and implemented to uplift the education system of Pakistan. We all should start looking at the bigger picture and understand that we are born for a reason, we are being given an aim to achieve. Our world should not just revolve around us, we should work for the betterment of the society as a whole. 
 

Q: Can you take us to your career journey? From where did you start your career and which thing you have enjoyed more in this journey of success?

I feel myself lucky that I started my career with Hilton International Lahore, which is an American Multinational hospitality company that manages and franchises a broad portfolio of hotels and resorts worldwide. Being at Hilton I got a chance to manage first Pakistani restaurant in Seoul Korea. Coming back to Pakistan I had been served hospitality industry in Pakistan on various positions starting from F&B serve to manager food & beverage and general manager to managing director in various establishments. Since 2002, I started sharing my knowledge as a faculty member and instructor in College of Tourism and Hotel Management and later on served as Director HR and Placement of students in Pakistan and overseas. Currently I am working as a Director Operations in Canadian College of Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts (COHMCA). Teaching is a noble profession and I love to teach and I believe that whatever we have learnt throughout our career and hardships of life, we have to transfer all that knowledge to our youth and coming generations.

Q: What are some of the most important qualities you recommend, before coming in this industry?

Dedication, Great communication skills, Cultural Awareness, Competency, Multi-tasking, Emotional Intelligence, Flexibility, Enthusiasm and team building are the key ingredients of hospitality profession. 

Q: In your opinion what is most important factor, to succeed in this industry?

Being successful in the industry means having a true passion for people, no matter who they are or from where they are coming. Because this is from the people, by the people and for the people. Need to serve guest with true sense of hospitality. 

Q:What does hospitality means to you?

Hospitality means being friendly, warm welcome and helpful to the others by heart and with passion, even sometime you have to scarify yourself to bring smile on the face of others, even for the stranger. 

Q:What professional development courses do you recommend?

Hospitality has a vast range of various sectors and there are tremendous opportunities for entrepreneur and jobs with high profit and incentives. We offer different type of programs in hospitality management and culinary arts. 

1- Short courses are designed by our experts and hospitality professionals to enable the students with the skillful and the practical knowledge. Training them to get immediate job after the completion of course.

2- We have some sponsored programs by the government of Punjab and the federal government of Pakistan for employability for youth of Pakistan with the gender equality.

3- Skill with degree These programs are offered by the PSDA with the recognition and certification of Punjab Technical Board.  The students can complete their education with skill from Middle, Matric, intermediate, Graduation and Master Degree in hospitality management and culinary arts.

4- We also offer international qualification by the affiliation of Confederation of Tourism and Hospitality UK from level 2 to level 5. This enable our students to study overseas in more than 100 universities worldwide, especially in Canada, America, England, Australia, Middle East and Europe as well.

Q: Tell us about your current courses in hospitality industry.

We are offering courses like,

• Level -2 in culinary arts
• Level-4 in Hospitality Management
• Essential Cooking Arts
• Fundamental of Baking
• Air Ticketing
• Food Safety and hygiene
• Diploma in modern cuisine
• Barista Skills

Q: Currently, you are the principal of Canadian College of Hospitality Management. How would you describe the vision of COHMCA?

Hospitality Travel and Tourism is one of the world's largest, most diverse, and dynamic industries. It offers a wide range and variety of jobs across the globe. With Pakistan's rich culture and mesmerizing tourist spots, there is a lot of potential in terms of growth in the industry. With our vision: 'Learn, Earn and Grow' COHMCA aims to train the youth into professionals and open a gateway to their bright and promising career in the Hospitality Industry. Our focus is to enable them to give honorable jobs and business opportunities not only in the local but international industry as well. We are resolute to maintain the highest possible international standards to prepare globally competitive managers and professionals for the hospitality industry.

Q: How would you access technology adaption in the hospitality industry?

The travel and tourism industry is always changing and technology is one of the main driving force behind this. Technology automate and speedup the processes which make it easier for tourism and hospitality businesses to manage guest services. Latest automatic equipment increase the quality and quantity of production of food and beverage operation. This is also because of technology that transportation has become fastest, easiest and time saving.

Q: What are the trends, that you feel , impacting the hospitality industry?

Circumstances over the past few years have triggered a tremendous transformation within the hospitality industry. Technology has been evolving at a breakneck speed and the hospitality will be utilizing technologies in many new and wonderful ways today. So an increased consumer awareness of all things sustainable, purposeful, health and wellbeing has set new trademarks for the hospitality enterprises. Hospitality venues are turning into remote working hotspots, free high speed Wi-Fi meeting rooms, restaurants and coffee shops are good starting points. More Spa, Gym and Health fitness centers are being introduced. Digitalized guest experiences in place of traditional service procedure, Hyper personal, Asset management strategy, Artificial intelligence, Virtual and augmented reality and social responsibility is a moral and economic factor. 

Q: Any message for the readers of INFORMAL MAGZINE.

Yes I would like to bring attention of people of Pakistan from all sectors of society that the young population is one of the most valuable assets we are blessed with and it is almost 63 percent of our total population and amongst them more than 50 percent youth are females. Need of the time is to give them education with skills to play a vital role in the development of Pakistan. We have to provide them right directions by means of effective policies with sincere and positive steps to enable them for taking constructive participation in every walk of life. Hospitality industry gives tremendous opportunities to youth for employability and entrepreneurs, within the Pakistan and all over the world.

Q2. How many years have been passed while providing educational services to society through this tremendous educational system named Dar-e-Arkam?

Ans.  Dar-e-Arkam is serving the society in education field for last twenty five years. Dar-e-Arkam has found in all important districts. Almost 700 branches are working in all over the Pakistan in all districts and provisions. Q3. Approximately how many students are being catered in all branches of Dar-e-Arkam all over Pakistan? Ans. We are catering approximately 0.3 million students every year. Students passes there matriculation from Dar-e-Arkam and move forward in colleges to get there higher education so the number of students increases every year. We have a vast network of franchise in all over Pakistan so we keep operating them from the head office based in Lahore so we keep this data updated accordingly the reports. Q4. According to your valuable opinion what are the hurdles or problems which our nation is facing in the field of Education? Ans. I believe that there are four major problems in this regard:

• Educational strategies
• Quality of education
• Expenditure on education
• Medium of instruction confusion
• Lack of political will to boost education.

Q5. What is single National curriculum? Ans. In a country like Pakistan, where Multilanguage, multiclass, multinational population exists, we should have "Single quality education" and single facility education system rather than single National curriculum. Same quality of education and same facilities should be provided to all students. Q6. How do you maintain quality of education in your institutions? Ans. We have different managers. We do not assign more than 20 schools to one manager. They have a list of quality assurance indicators .They visit different schools and check them for all those parameters which are assigned by head office. Where ever we see loop holes, we get them corrected by pointing them out .We have check and balance at central, zonal and school level. Q7. Do you think your school come under public sector or does it comes under private sector.? Ans. Basically education is the responsibility of the state. Then Government makes policies regarding education. State and Government should own the responsibility for providing education to the majority of population. But in last 75 years education is not reached there where it should be. Public sector is facilitating in this regard but public sector should also play within boundaries. I think state, Government and regulatory authorities should take private sector is confidence and they should work like hands in hands to uplift the quality of education and quantity of literate population. Private sector should be encouraged in this regard. Q8. Apart from running your own schools you are supervising some institutions of public sector and providing your services to uplift education standards over there. Kindly tell us something regarding this service as well. Ans. We have adopted few government schools and appointed good teachers over there. Government gives us a limited budged but as a social service and as a social responsibility we are playing our role in uplifting those schools. I feel it as our ethical and social responsibility Q9.In your opinion who is a good teacher. Ans.  A good teacher should have passion to teach. Degree; skill and subject grip are secondary but passion comes first. Every child can become, Bill Gates and Ibne-Hashim.  Only a good teacher discovers the hidden talents in students. Q10. In your opinion how Education uplifted in our country and what suggestion you would like to give to the," Teachers “of our society? Ans. According to my Opinion State.., Government, regulatory authorities and private sector should play their part upto their maximum to give importance to Education. Private sector should facilitated...Private schools are helping to provide quality education to our youth. As far as teachers are concerned, only passionate persons should enter this field. A good degree holder, a skilled person and full of knowledge person cannot be a good teacher, unless and until he is a good human being and a passionate teacher.

Q: Please tell our readers about yourself. I™m Assistant Professor in FGEIs, Ministry of Defence, serving as Head of English Department in FG College, Lahore. I™ve taught English in Government College University, Punjab University, Education University and University of Lahore. I™m the first CSS mentor who has her own website for English coaching. I™ve one of the largest Facebook student bases. My YouTube channel is one of the foremost CSS related channels that were launched in Pakistan. My student base is in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Middle East and other countries. Q: Why did you choose this profession? Well, as a kid, teaching was off the chart, but as I grew up, I realized the significance of teachers as torchbearers in my life. Being taught by the most competent and well-versed teachers in GCU motivated me to join the profession. Q: How do you motivate your students? I usually start my lectures with anecdotes selected from the lives of renowned personalities. Motivation comes when students realise that the most widely known philosophers, scholars and scientists were once students like them, struggling with boring concepts and tedious homework, yearning to fulfill their own ambitions and their parents™ dreams. When a student relates with another person, the desire to study and the hope to succeed come naturally. Q: How do you like to communicate and build relationship with your students? I make my students realise that all I want from them is hard work. When I am doing my part, I expect them to do theirs; and as long as they finish the work assigned, I am content with their performance. I™ve discovered that in the absence of undue expectations and emotional burden a student does his/her best. Q: Tell our readers about a time when you faced difficulty in life. Well, it was in 2016 when I resigned from GCU and joined UoL. At the same time, I was teaching at Law College and Institute of Communication Studies in PU, and was also coaching CSS students in the evening. Commuting between two universities and an academy was so time taking and hectic that every day I decided to quit. Anyway, it was Allah who gave me strength, and I was able to meet my commitments. Interestingly, the tiring cycle ended when I stood first in FPSC exam in 2018 and was sent to Multan as Head of English Department where I served for three years. Now, I™m articaled in Lahore and have my own academy with a student base that is spread all across Pakistan. Let me tell you that difficulties do not come to mar us; they help us get shaped into who we are. As students of life, our job is meeting day to day commitments with dignity, honesty and dedication, and the mundane will, one day, pile up into the most extraordinary achievements. Q: You have a very active social media. How do you manage? When I started off as a teacher, I became active on social media as I wanted to interact with my students. Because I lacked training, I learnt SEO, Digital Marketing, Wordpress, etc., to understand how different platforms worked. Gradually, I developed a knack for it and expanded my business. Now, my team looks after the daily articals while I develop exclusive content for the weekly videos. Q: Writing essay, why is it challenging for students. What do you recommend them to do? Well, that depends on the exam that one is preparing for. In IELTS, essay writing is relatively easier and more basic. The essay question becomes difficult in CSS and other government job exams due to competition. Overall, a 100 mark essay is usually easier for the ones who come from Cambridge system because of creative writing courses they™ve taken. Despite having vast knowledge on different topics, students preparing for Board exams often struggle with English proficiency. However, language is just one facet of essay writing; there are many others. It is consistent work in the right direction that unlocks the key to success in essay writing paper. Q: What is active learning? Sometimes we open a book only to send our mind on a snooze. Sometimes we open a book, and we are wide awake. Active learning takes place when we are ready to receive knowledge with open eyes, active mind and enthusiastic heart. If we cannot enjoy a book now, it does not mean that we would never enjoy it. We develop taste with time, and we must keep returning to the subjects that we find difficult. In this way, we will one day receive the treasure of knowledge that they hold for us. Q: What is your favourite subject? Chemistry! I love the fact that humans have not only discovered the elements that are spread all across the universe but also devised ways to arrange them in a predictable periodic table. I adore the chemistry of elements with and against one another. Q: Was it easy for you to reach the position that you have today? The position that I enjoy today is the outcome of the labour that I might never be able to express in words. But, if given a chance, I™d make the same choices again for the respect that I™m bestowed with today. Q: Share with us a moment that you are very proud of. There are many such moments, but if you ask as a teacher, I take immense pride when the hard work of my students has rewarded. You have no idea how disadvantaged and deplorable the circumstances are for students, yet the spark to prevail upon the circumstances makes them achieve what many can™t even dream of. Q: Any message for our readers? The secret lies in growth. Keep growing; keep learning. You™re in a world that has been advancing day and night. Learn as much as you can, and consult as many resources as you can. Never stop believing in yourself. Stay focused, channelize your energies in one direction, and remember there is nothing that can defeat you.

• individual child & youth development
• family environment
• reliable and resilient relationships

• We know every child by name. 

• We care within a family.

• We stay with the children as long as they need us.

1. What is the prime focus of œNative School and how it is different than others?

Ans. In contemporary time, everyone claims their institute is different, but a legitimate standard to prove how good or different any school is by examining; what kind of result they produce and how many positions they hold. Since, Native School has been producing marvelous result with top positions; therefore, our school stands different in real sense.

There are three main things about which I™m always concerned and ought to develop these in my students. These three things are; Creativity, Confidence and Character Building “ or as I so likes to call it œThe Ultimate 3 C™s of Success.

Unfortunately, in our current Education System, students who get good grades are considered smart as compare to students who are creative, confident and have ability to do all things by themselves. That's why; we work on creativity, confidence and character building of students. And, students who develop these 3 C™s are considered as œtoppers.

2. How do you see the superlative service of Native School in the field of Education?

Ans.It is a magnificent blessing of Allah Almighty that Native School System has always been a trend setter to bring new trends in education sector of Pakistan. We did a sort of survey and we found out that 80% of our students said they will do jobs, but then, we started a campaign to highlight Entrepreneurship among students and to convince the parents of students to make their children entrepreneur rather than some 9-5 job holders.

There is saying of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), œWisdom is the lost property of the Believer - It is a part of our custom and we tell this to people very happily that; what we are doing, they should do it too.

3. Do you think we have made any progress with the existing Education System of Pakistan?

Ans.No, we haven™t made progress, this system is given by British, it is a very old system and we are still following it. InshaAllah system will be changed, as I mentioned three C™s, we are also engaging Quality Circles; a concept originated from Japan and later on spread to other countries. With the help of Quality Circles Native School is going to implement case-study based learning for the first time in Pakistan.

4. Do you think current courses in academic institutions of Pakistan need any change?

Ans.Current courses are totally based on repetition and are only concerned with cramming. Entire syllabus of schools must be re-designed while focusing on the intellectuality of students.

Holy Quran is a complete code of life, it teaches all the aspects of life. But, mostly here we read Holy Quran in Arabic and don™t understand it. Tariq Aziz use to host a show œNeelamGhar and in that he always said, œthe important thing is to understand the Holy Quran. After listening to him, I also focused on understanding Quran rather than just reading it. That™s why, at Native school we teach Quran with translation to our students. Even, prayer is also taught with translation from 6^th class to onwards.

5. It use to be decided by parents that whether their child is going to be a doctor, engineer, pilot, etc., but now students are taking this gear to decide their fate. What is your opinion on this?

Ans.I must say, it is a very good question! My personal opinion is that; our upcoming students who are in 4th, 5th, 6th, 1st year, 2nd year and even in graduation - they are blessed with knowledge and they have a broad vision and credit for this goes to educationists, media and gadgets.

6. Native school is also focusing on teaching Chinese language to students; how fruitful it™s going to be?

Ans.Importance of knowledge can be understood by hadith of Holy Prophet (PBUH), œSeek knowledge even if you have to go as far as China. Pakistan is going for a partnership with china and there is going to be a great deal of opportunities, so we want to cash this situation fruitfully.

7. Any message you want to give to students, teacher and parents through our platform?

Ans.Our religion œIslam is the most refined religion in entire world and everything is described in a basic manner in Quran. All the successful nations in world become successful by acting on Quran and we have to do the same. Rights of people come first and how we have to interact and do things is the key of becoming a civilized and successful nation. We have to act on it to make Allah happy!

Ans. I have been associated with AFAQ since 2003 and I joined AFAQ as the Director Training. Before this I was working in the Center for Education Research and Development (CERD)

3. How AFAQ has grown from just a house in Lahore to a major organisation?

Ans. In 2003 AFAQ was working with limited scope, focusing research and training domains. AFAQ which was only limited to a house in Lahore, now has branches in 30 different cities of Pakistan and has more than 600 employees. Now, AFAQ is a well-reputed organisation in public and private sectors and even all over the world as well.

During the last 20 years, AFAQ has played an important role in the development of education and now every year teachers attend the seminars conducted by AFAQ. Recently, AFAQ has helped principals of Pakistan to groom professionally through a well-designed course held in UK (Ireland) and in the same spirit AFAQ has arranged another tour to Japan for principals to compare and improve their own educational systems.

4. Tell us about the countrywide reach of AFAQ.

Ans. AFAQ has a well organised branched system that spreads out in 30 cities all over Pakistan. We conduct trainings in 90% of the Districts of Pakistan through our teacher training programs and special seminars.

5. Enlighten us about significant attainments and products offered by AFAQ.

Ans. AFAQ offers a wide range of books for students from pre-nursery to grade 8 ad along with that, we have children™s literature including encyclopedia and readers. Encyclopedia published weekly with the latest research and discussion on particular topic covering œCountries, Animals, Inventions and Personalities. We also have teachers support materials, digital resources and different models that are provided to the school for their development. AFAQ has also provided the Federal Center of Education with their 70 to 80% publications.

6. How much emphasis you put on the element of learning?

Ans. We are quite focused on it and most of our readers have eBooks. We have also introduced augmented reality in a contract with Russia over the past two years.

7.As you know education is shifting to STEM, so what role does AFAQ play in the aspect?

Ans. Our various activities are related to STEM education but STEM based education system does not provide a concrete foundation and diverse curriculum. Keeping all these flaws in view, AFAQ decided to develop its own curriculum supporting STEM education.

8. What type of courses and diplomas does AFAQ offer?

Ans. There are more than 150 training modules available consisting of quality improvement, school leadership, TOT programs, pedagogy, character building and subject based training. We offer 3 and 6 month courses on effective teaching and leadership. There are more than 100 titles offering diplomas.

9. How do you define the qualities of a good teacher?

Ans. A good teacher should have a relevant subject command with an effective plan to convey his/her knowledge in a strategic way to students. They should improve creative thinking skills in students so that they can strive best in the 21^st century.

10. What role AFAQ is playing in making Pakistan progress towards a better education system?

Ans. AFAQ is playing a major role in providing quality education, where the improvement steps taken by the Ministry are given by AFAQ

11. What message you would convey to the readers of our magazine?

Ans. I would to take this opportunity to appreciate the team to highlight the aspects relevant to education and its importance in this day and age. My message to the readers of your magazine is to bring their learning into reality as implementation is the key to success.

Mr. Behram Shah is the Business Development Manager of œNGS Preschool

Ans. My academic journey began at NGS Preschool for my early education years, and then I continued on to Aitchison College, Lahore. I completed my undergraduate degree from University of Manchester, UK in Economics and Business Studies. Returning back to Pakistan in 2013, I joined my family business, NGS Education. I will continue to dedicate myself to the education sector.

Ans. NGS strives daily to uphold its motto: education transcending the classroom. Our commitment to excellence is primarily based on building and shaping the nation™s future.

3. What is the student strength of your school?

Ans. Our student strength is 1000+ students across the campuses and growing every day.

4. Which curriculum do you use or follow?

Ans. We follow Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). Cambridge Assessment International Education prepares school students for life, helping them develop an informed curiosity and a lasting passion for learning.

 Ans. Structured teaching is paramount in building the framework of a student™s creativity and intelligence. At NGS, we believe in guided independent learning and exploration for the enhancement of critical thinking. We have worked tirelessly in building a strong STEM research department to give our students the right tools to ask the right questions.

6. Do teachers have opportunities for professional development in Pakistan?

Ans. Yes, indeed. NGS has been at the centre of teacher training in Lahore since its inception. We are proud to boast of a teacher-training centre, headed by Dr. Sahar Qadir, who holds a PhD in Education Management from University of Cambridge, UK. The department primarily focuses on implementation of new types of learning in the classroom and beyond. Furthermore, NGS also works closely with British Council and Cambridge Examination board for annual training workshops and seminars.

7. Do you think students have opportunities to make their future here in Pakistan?

Ans. Absolutely, Pakistan is thriving with opportunity and resourcefulness for a budding professional. Our higher education department, universities and research centers all over the country are spearheading fantastic projects and collaborating with international partners to provide our youth with the best of local and international education and experience.

8. As an educationist can you tell us about the problems you face from the side of the parents? 

Ans. At NGS, parents are our partners and collaborators in providing students with the best quality education at school and beyond. We believe in working closely with them on a daily basis, whether face-to-face or online, to resolve arising issues and queries.

9. What is the future of NGS as an organisation?

Ans. We are exponentially focusing on quality expansion inside and outside of Lahore. Specifically, we are proud to announce our services in south of Punjab with the opening of two new state-of-the-art and purpose built campuses in Sadiqabad and Bahawalpur. Additionally, we are also working in building a dynamic career-counseling department under the guidance and expertise of Mr Ryan Young, University of Cambridge.

10. Any message for our young readers?

Ans. I encourage Informal readers to work and collaborate together to learn from each other and utilise one™s educational journey for the greater good and service of humanity for the burgeoning success of a community.

1. Tell us about yourself and your astonishing exposure?

Ans. I have always been very enthusiastic and keen to contribute positively towards the society, and my current position as Head Operations at TKS reflects it truly prior to this. I have been connected to the field of Education, Business Management and Administration. I have worked with MNCs in FMCG and hospitality industry.

Ans. TKS is a part of ILM trust which was establish in 1990 with a vision of introducing new trends in the education sector of Pakistan. Its educational initiatives are a symbol of success and quality today, both at National as well as International level. Contribution towards the progress of Pakistan and producing globally responsible citizen is the core mission of ILM Trust.

Ans. Our main focus is on moral and Islamic value based Education. We have introduced an exclusive subject for this purpose, œLife & Learning. A TKS student is a self-motivated, confident and an energetic individual, who aims at achieving excellence in every field of life. The incorporation of hands-on activities and concrete learning resources at the very basic level of Preschool ensures the fulfillment of this desire to acquire practical knowledge as well as skill building and preparation for the practical aspects of life and the global challenges ahead.

Ans. We have more than 200 campuses along with our presence in 100+ towns.

5. What is the main thing you focus when someone comes to own a franchise of your school? 

Ans. When someone comes to own a franchise of our School System, the basic focus is to uphold the dignity and values of TKS. We believe that œleaders create leaders. Any individual who commits to excellence and takes the ownership and responsibility of upholding  the core values of TKS i.e. quality education , passion to contribute towards the success and growth of the country and enthusiasm to accept challenges and excel , can surely be a part of the system

6. According to you what is the core issue with our education system?

Ans. The Current education system has shifted its core focus from provision of value education to the never-ending competition of achieving higher grades. Quality education is being compromised and the curriculum is not modified from time to time. The current education system measures success with number game. Government educational policies are adversely impacting the current education system of our country.

7. Do you think we are educating our upcoming generations in a right way? 

Ans. The term œeducating encompasses development, growth, preparedness and skill development to meet future challenges as well as to achieve the set goal; unfortunately, the current system is unable to œeducate the upcoming generation in the right way. The key aspect which is missing is the awareness and acknowledgement of the core Islamic values as well as the basic morals and ethics. For œeducating the upcoming generation, it is crucial to shift the focus from the blind competition of marks gaining to inculcation of core ethical values and providing quality education.

8. What are your goals that you are targeting to achieve in coming years?

Ans. In the upcoming year, I see TKS as an emerging role model system. Our School will set an example for the education sector to adapt a system productive for growth and development, where the basic focus is to teach the core values and skills for leading the life as a true Muslim and a successful individual. The incorporation of Islamic morals and values is our key focus.

9. What inspires you the most about students these days? 

Ans. I think students have better exposure these days which make them a quick learner. They're well aware and updated about the things happening around.

10. In the end would you like to give any motivational message to our readers?

Ans. I believe we need to understand the purpose of education, if being educated we don™t realize the basic moral values of Islam and humanity the entire efforts of gaining this worldly knowledge are in vain.

Ans. My schooling was at Presentation Convent School Rawalpindi and I got my undergraduate degree in Science from Government College and then I pursued my professional degree of Pharmacy from the Punjab University. Attended various courses in Supervisory and Educational Administration from the University of Pittsburgh and Deakin University Australia and achieved my Master's degree in Educational Administration.

2. When did you decide to become a teacher and why did you choose this field?

Ans. Teaching comes naturally to me, as I have younger siblings. Whilst living in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania USA for 15 years I loved teaching my two kids at home and also worked as a substitute teacher occasionally in their school along with helping out my husband at his pharmacy. Finally, we decided to return to Pakistan and here I made up my mind to go into teaching. I joined a local school in 1991 as a science teacher and worked my way up to be the principal and then eventually went into partnership to build their secondary school. In 2006, I was determined to establish my own school named SISA. By the grace of Allah Almighty, I have been able to deliver meaningful education with my strong team of passionate and dedicated teachers for 12 years at SISA now.

3. What is your favourite subject to teach? Why?

Ans. I don™t know for some reason Chemistry became my favourite subject to teach. This subject I was never very fond of in school, but as I taught my students they responded so well that I loved teaching it. I get so involved when I am taking a class that I lose track of time which students sometimes do not appreciate. Apart from Chemistry, I teach other subjects like Biology, Environmental Management, English and Food, and Nutrition.

4. What do you like most about teaching as a career?

Ans. Well, there are a lot of reasons but I feel most proud when my old students, successful in their professional and personal life, come back to me and say, Ms. It™s all because of your guidance, grooming, and teaching that we are at this position.

5. Please tell our readers about SISA.

Ans. SISA is the culmination of my dream and hard work to provide quality education and co-curricula™s to young minds. In order to make Pakistan a better place, we at SISA take our responsibility towards the youth very seriously. The younger ones have a fun-filled childhood of learning, while the older students are groomed to be sensible, hard-working, well-rounded, progressive citizens who aim high and achieve what they have set out to.

6. Why should parents choose SISA for their children?

Ans. Parents should choose SISA because the school environment is safe and secure. Teachers are experienced and willing to go the extra mile to help out students with their academics and co-curricular activities. Our curriculum is effective which enhances knowledge of the students.  Actions speak louder than words are our motto and we are true to its letter. Every child matters here and we try to bring out the best in each student by unlocking their creativity and resourcefulness.

7. How do you help students experience success?

Ans. We strive to provide young boys™ & girls™ knowledge and skills to reach their academic and social potential by providing a stimulating and supportive program for self- education. They turn into well-groomed individuals ready to face the challenges of adulthood. Our students are strong in academics as well as in co-curricular activities which turns them into highly successful and well-rounded individuals.

8. What is your approach to classroom management?

Ans. Classroom management and behavior management are two different things which are taken as one generally. Classroom management is often an area of concern. It is basically the instructional environment which relates to the climate for learning (routine tasks and procedures) whereas behavior management is when a student fails to meet the expectations and disrupts the classroom environment he/she must be prepared to face the consequences which the teacher must consistently enforce. I train my teachers to deal with these two tiers separately by demonstrating in the classrooms and it works.

9. Describe your professional development career.

Ans. I keep myself continually œswitched on and œtuned in, to issues and developments affecting my profession. Teaching and managing one school for 15 years taught me the skills that were further polished at SISA. I feel that a person keeps on developing and learning the ropes until the end. I believe in Continuing Education, doing research on professional development and involving myself in online courses.

10. What could a visitor to your school expect to see?

Ans. Clean and disciplined environment - children can be observed during recess or after school with teachers on duty. Morning Assembly time conducted by the Headboy or Headgirl and the student council of the school.

Children playing in their physical education period with the sports teacher or swimming with the coach in the pool. Smooth transitions between classes in middle and high school. Extracurricular classes going on after school for students interested in chess, debating, swimming, table tennis and football.

11. Any message to the readers of the informal magazine?

Ans. My message to educationists and readers would be to help students to succeed in life through quality education which is a prerequisite to establish the future we want in Pakistan. We need to nurture leaders for the future - a generation of internationally minded and technologically aware global citizens who retain Islamic values. We can transform our society by producing informed citizens who have skills of enquiry, communication, participation, and responsible action.

1. Tell us about yourself and an account of your respective field?

Ans.My field of experience is teacher education, motivation at work, formation of policies and procedures, quality assurance, entrepreneurship and capacity building. I started my career as a teacher in 1993. Since, last 27 years I am serving in education field.

In the beginning of my career as a teacher I didn™t know much how to teach students while using various teaching techniques, methods and approaches. Later, I have joined Beaconhouse, Head Office as launched its project œThe Educators, I realized that we need to do much work on ˜Curriculum Designing, Student Learning Objectives & Outcomes (SLOs), Teaching Methods, Teaching and Learning Resources Development, Formative & Summative Assessment of SLOs. We have prepared centralized school operations manuals for Academics, Administration, Health Safety Environment (HSE) and Life Skills. I have been visiting schools across the country in order to compliance of manuals and evaluate schools as a whole. I have been conducted artical evaluation trainings and cluster based trainings as well.

Ans.I have launched œInstitute of Professional Excellence in October, 2016“as an employee of many renowned institutes I have come across many issues related to schools, teachers, students and parents which needed to be addressed but I found myself helpless due to my job. So, I have planned to set up my owned Insititute where I can work independently.  IPE work for teachers™ education, introduce modern teaching methodologies and offer our services to evaluate multiple elements which needs to be adhered by the school, college and university as a whole unit. We also conduct evaluation of academic™s service, curriculum book lists review, assess school leaders, teachers and students™ performance and all related areas. In addition to this, we are providing services for student™s aptitude tests so that school could teach them according to their skills and abilities. Parents have significant role in student learning So, we organize guidance and counselling sessions for parents generally and for the mothers specifically.

Ans.It is a dilemma that in our society teaching profession is taken as last choice. Education and health both professions direct deal with human beings. We should have zero tolerance for mistakes and negligence. Therefore, we motivate schools and teachers to make them realize that they are the one who nourish students as successful and responsible citizens.

Teachers have diversified role to be performed in classroom as mentor, guide, manager and a leader of students. So, it is necessary to make sure that they should be professionally sound and well trained. Besides, they should offer job security along with attractive salary package.

Ans.IPE not only playing its role in the field of education but also extending its services for youth development while forming societies, clubs and forums according to their interest and role,In addition to it, IPE is planning to establish youth forum for youngsters to groom themselves according to the requirement of 21^st century 4Cs scenario.

Women welfare activities are being perform to promote small businesses at their door steps, we offer interest free micro financing facility to a needy, widows, and orphans on easy terms and conditions. Furthermore, we have established skills development cell where round the year short courses are being offered and end course job security is ensured. Last but not the least, we also organizing training session for prisoners™ development. And playing our role in police reforms as well.

5. Do you think Pakistan is growing in terms of education sector?

Ans.If I would review my previous experience and talk about the current scenario, I will say; yes, but when we compare public and private sector change is visiblein private sector. Because,project based learning (PBL), 4Cs concepts (Communication, creativity, critical thing and collaboration), knowhow about the learning domains (cognitive, affective and psychomotor domain) is noticeable, SLOs and lesson planning is being practiced, and classes to some extent shifting teacher to students centered. Concept of group work, pair work, role paly and project based presentation is being used. On the other hand, the government sector has more funds but change process is very slow which is the main reason its growth and development is stagnate.

6. How can we produce quality teachers for our young students?

Ans.We have to develop a large number of institutes where teachers could get chance to attend training sessions on a regular basis, so they could teach according to ever changing educational requirements and demands. œAKS formula should remain in focus and teacher should develop œAttitude œSkill and œAbility before to adopting teaching as profession. It can be achieved by creating the professional development environment; pre-service, in-service and continuous professional development opportunities along with periodic performance review mechanism.

7. How can we inject the element of practical learning in our teachers?

Ans.Teaching profession has more responsibility not only to educate the students but also in the development of behaviors and skills. Therefore, teachers should hold a relevanttraining in teaching, child psychology, behavior management, curriculum review and planning, community development and self-management. For that purpose they need to hold educational degrees e.g.B.Ed, M.Ed, MA.ELM and more others. Similarly, theoretical knowledge along with teaching practice should also be a mandatory and prerequisite of teaching profession.

8. Enlighten us about the various modes of effective teaching methods?

Ans.Various teaching techniques should be used while using teaching methods; such as we taught language (English/ Urdu) as subject, whereas, we should teach language to improve and enhance skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing). On the other hand, science subject should be more focused on discovery learning, inductive & deductive method, observation and analytical skills and experiments. Learning objectives to learning outcomes all activities should be well planned and students should be allowed to share their ideas, thoughts, experiences, past experiences while using language skills. Easy to complex and problem solving learning environment should be created. They should be allowed to bring innovation and display their ideas in front of class so that their communication, creativity, critical thinking and collaborative skills can enhance according to 21^st century 4Cs concept.

9. If you could go in the past, is there anything that you would like to change?

Ans.Yes! Many things, but above all, I wish could write biography of my father. My father was an officer in Pakistan Navy and an eye witness of many activities which were being performed by Navy in his tenure. He has been eye witnessed fall of Dhaka, 1965 and 1971 wars. He told me hundreds of stories which I heard multiple times, if I could have recorded them then I would easily have created a book out of it. In addition to this, if I could go back then play my role in youngsters™ life to become artist, poet, writer or tourist because apart from my current profession I am nature lover who always possessed to discover nature beauty and then display it on canvas, express it in poetic form, or explore it as tourist.

10. What message you would convey to the teachers and our readers?

Ans.‹As we all knew, education play its vital role in any society and in the history of civilization. Islam advises us œseek knowledge cradle to grave. Teaching and training demands high quality education standards to be provided across the board from preschool up to higher education Institutes. It can be ensured through sufficient funds allocation, right person for right job, recognition of services, acknowledgement and appreciation of dedication, criticism for improvement, planning education commission that should provide forum for collaboration between public and private sector, orientation of key performance indicators, continuous professional development mechanism and performance evaluation. IPE possess to form state of the art professional development Institutes across the Pakistan. In Shaa Allah!

11. Your message for INFORMAL Magazine?

I am very grateful and honored to be interviewed by your editorial board. I have gone through few previous versions of your magazine. It is appreciated that you are covering almost all areas of life. It is my humbled submission that Informal Educational Board should be formed that contact or visit educational institutes and collect issues and then suggest their solution. It will be a great contribution from the forum of your magazine. May your magazine flourish day and night. Ameen. Pakistan Zindabad !

1. Please introduce yourself, tell us about your background in education and what interested you in applying for this job?

Ans. I originally came from London to Lahore in 1983 with my husband, Nadeem Qasir, author of ˜Pakistan: the Political Economy since 1947™.  I was Principal and English teacher at our original Jail Rd branch on the canal from 1984.  In 1990 we founded Bloomfield Hall in Multan with 23 students; it now has over 4000, I am delighted to say!

My degree is from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne and I took my PGCE (artical Graduate Certificate in Education) from Sheffield University in 1975. I taught in a number of schools in the UK before coming to Pakistan.

Having worked over the years in our school in a number of different capacities - teaching A level English literature, O level language and literature, Class 7 history and English language, Class 4 language, Study Skills at our sister institution UCL, directing school and college plays -  I took semi-retirement in London. I very soon found out, however, that I just was not the retirement type! I returned to Lahore to Head our Gulberg branch in 2015 and am thoroughly enjoying the experience.

2. Principal positions require intense time-management. Give instances of how you organize your day to meet the various demands and commitments required as a school principal

Ans. Our lovely receptionist Ms Nidaorganises my appointments for me, fitting them around my teaching timetable and meeting schedules.

I have a once-a-week meeting with all our coordinators together to discuss whole-school matters, and fixed times to meet individual coordinators regarding their particular age-group of children.

3. What is your philosophy of leadership? How would you lead a school-wide initiative expected for an entire district?

Ans. Leading a school means being a teacher, I feel, not merely an administrator and Public Relations face. One needs to interact directly with the students to get the feel of the school from their perspective and to allow fellow teachers to regard one as a capable colleague, not only as The Boss.

One needs to ensure that, for any initiative to go forward successfully, one has one™s team™s enthusiasm and full co-operation; this can only be ensured by having good relations among team members, and an open relationship which allows for disagreement, discussion and consensus.

4. How do you build a positive school culture or climate? Give examples of how you would do that here?

Ans. Positivity in school, I feel, emanates from the Principal™s office and is inculcated within the staff members so that the children can sense the mood of the school as a happy, positive one; it™s essential that teachers come to school happily, looking forward to their day with the children and with their colleagues. Teachers should be monitored and guided in such a way that there is no sense of resentment, embarrassment, nor, God forbid, humiliation.

Keeping an eye on staff relations is also conducive to a happy atmosphere: teachers who come to school to gossip about colleagues or to make catty remarks in the staff room should simply not be there. The children are given plenty of incentive to do well and to behave appropriately; we present certificates and awards for many aspects of children™s development. We have zero tolerance of bullying in Bloomfield Gulberg and children are aware of the behaviour expected of them if they witness it.

5. How do you recruit and maintain quality teachers and staff members?

Ans. Fortunately, we don™t have a high turn-over rate among our staff; most have been with us for a very long time. When we do need someone new, we have a file of applicants to which we turn. Treating staff with respect and friendliness and paying them satisfactorily is the way to keep them.

6. What advice would you give to a new teacher on his or her first year?

Ans. Actors are advised, œLearn your lines and don™t bump into the furniture! In the same concise manner, one could advise teachers: œKnow your subject matter and plan your lesson.

But additionally, of course, I would advise anyone wishing to enter the teaching profession not to do so unless they really like children. One™s job as a teacher is a joy if one likes kids and a hell, I would imagine, if one doesn™t.

7. What advice would you give to the parents when you meet them?

Ans. Read with your children! Listen to your children! Talk to your children! And when you™ve done that, read with them, listen to them and talk with them some more. And when you™ve done that, read.....

You get the general idea.

1. Tell us about yourself and an account of your respected field?

Ans.I™m the CEO of Native Group and I™m also associated with the designing and printing field. My technical field is a big support for me and to accomplish it I had worked a lot. My father encompassed a great role in my personal development, he said to do things you need to be dedicated and while you start to gain focus, you will soon experience difficulties and coming out of these difficulties will create your image - without these difficulties you are nothing.

Ans.As far as support is concern, I merge it with the vision that until you make developments and adaptations in your institution, you cannot support it - by this you improve your institution. I have a role in it and each one of us have a role in developing and improving the organization to support it.

Ans.I am an inspired person and I have values which are important, these values are and taught to me by my father. My father was an inspiring person and he inspired others as well, so, having such an inspiring person at home one could easily get Inspirational strength.

Ans.We are doing well! We have multiple branches all around the country. We have 35 branches all over Pakistan and in coming session our strength will be enhanced up to 40. In addition to it, People who work with us help us to maintain and run our system. Students who learn and groom in our institutions are basically taught by our best teachers who update their parents in all matters.

5. In your own perspective, what is education?

Ans.For me education means to polish and draw the potential of a student. Education is originated from a Greek word œEdu which means to draw. Our goal is to draw the inner potential of students so they may become what they are destined to be. In Quran, Allah told us that he created man himself and he created man with beauty. So, this beauty cannot be confined to superficial appearance, there is something more in it and it is our inner capabilities.

6. What role school can play in developing the moral values of a student?

Ans.Parents, teacher and student is a triangle in which student is taught ethics. What school teaches must be endorsed by parents. The there are social values and Islamic moral values, until you treat both in same way you cannot get the maximum output.

7. How an individual can become a good entrepreneur/educationist?

Ans.I have a formula for this; it is 3F formula. First F stands for Focus; your focus must be good, you must be aware of your goals. Second F stands for fear; our fear develops our motivation. Third is the element of faith; our faith allows us to overcome fears.

8. What is the motive behind teaching Chinese language in your institution?

Ans.CPEC is a mega project which is providing and will provide more jobs in future. Instead of waiting for such time, we are preparing our students for future and developing their interest in it. Now, our students know counting, speaking and other notions of Chinese language.

9. Apparently, government in trying to eliminate marking system with grading system for Matric and Intermediate, is it a good step?

Ans. Yes, it is a good step but still there is no proper infrastructural plan for this initiative to be fully implemented in your education system. Therefore, government should initiate an adequate plan first, which will give authenticity to the grading system.

10. What message you would convey to the parents and our readers?

Ans. Our extensive conversation is a message itself. Moral values play a significant role in uplifting a society. Moral values not only make us law abiding citizen but a good human being. Wise individuals help their neighbors- this lesson holds great moral significance. We as a part of the society must help each other as moral value teaches us the values of being a good citizenship and a god human being.

1. Tell us about yourself and give us an account of your journey?

Ans.I got my basic education from Lahore and completed my higher studies from Government College. I was blessed with good teachers and I was fond of a lot of things which include debating, and teaching. I developed my leadership skills at during my early education, when I won my first debating competition; I came to discover my talent in debating. As far as my family background is concerned, my family was linked with educational field, especially my grandmother who served a lot in this field.

2. What is CMT and how it is making a difference in the field of education?

Ans. CMT stands for Career Motivation and Training. It is making a difference in the field of education as we are coaching and training teachers, our team was small in the beginning but it has grown a lot. Allhamdulillah!

3. Tell us about yourself as a motivational speaker?

Ans. As a motivational speaker I have given my services in different institutions. Like all great personalities in history have some past which make them what they are it is not the time but the way in which you spend your time. It™s the process which make you what you are not the number of years. Before coming on social media no one was aware of me, it was a very long journey that how I got popular on social media in becoming ˜Nadia Jaffrey™.

4. According to you, what are the current tribulations we are facing in our societal setup?

Ans. In our society there is a great deal of insecurity that by empowering someone we will be overshadowed by their success. Other than this, I have seen that there is clash between the creativity and norms. Every individual has certain skills and you need to be convinced with other individuals & trade; professional skills if you are hiring them. In other fields women are playing a subordinate role except education. We need collaboration in education system to improve the standard of the system.

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5. How well the students are equipped with the moral values? 

Ans. Education and moral teaching are not two different things, they are the same.  We need to learn ethics with education. We need to inoculate the ethical values with education in all subjects in all manners for character building of the students. As far as the sustainable development goal is concern, it also focuses on education. SDG-4 goal indicate diversity which means accepting the reality instead of showing sympathy. Private sector is offering education everywhere, where they can find place. If system doesn™t support it then it will be a slow process to provide education to the citizens. Ultimately, education leads to the moral values.

6. What is your stance on the aspect of student centers?

Ans. As far student centres are concern it is not totally focused on education. We need to educate mothers and families about pre-birth conditions that how they can work for the betterment of their children, how they can improve their health”because in Pakistan, malnutrition and vitamin deficiency in women and children is a great problem. We need to tackle this problem by overcoming the addiction to fast food, as it poses a great health threat. Junk food and fast food are causing great health problems. Moreover, the administration of schools should inspect the canteens and cafeterias for food items that may cause any health problems for the students.

7. What message you would convey to the readers of our magazine?

Ans. We can transform our society by producing informed citizens who have skills of enquiry, communication, participation, and responsible action. Therefore, students should always see their interest and then pick a relevant field that would not be boring for them at all.Students should focus, be unique in their work and indulge themselves in hard-work to shine the name of our beloved country. We can advance our society by producing informed citizens who have skills of enquiry, communication and participation along with the moral values.

1. Do you think we have a break down in our Education System?

Ans.If I am not wrong, Pakistan is having one of the biggest educational setup in the world that includes from district level to regional level, from rural to urban even from private to government level but it is in a very complex shape. We have a complex network of schools, colleges and universities. But at the same time, this setup is also under-developed, on one side we have œDanish School on the other hand, we have schools in privileged areas that are in worn-out condition. So, yes, we do have a break down in our educational system which is mostly because of some wrong policies of government.

2. What do you think might be the solution for this break down in the field of Education?

Ans.Government should not establish few Danish schools rather than that with the same money they should renovate the existing schools. In short they should start from grass-route level. They should revive the schools that are already constructed but just needs a little of refurbishing. Similarly, government rather than giving a single laptop to a single student, should build computer labs, where one system might be used by a huge number of students.

3. How do you interpret the highly funded œRoad-Infrastructure and our œEducation Expenditure for our students and concerned citizens?

Ans.In my view, the way government is spending a huge amount on the infrastructure of the state™s roads and highways, will all be wasted if we would not have educated citizens. The same huge budget that is been spent on the construction of roads, underpasses should also be used for our education sector as well, which would benefit more than these bridges etc.

4. What change do you see in future of our young students in next few years?

Ans.Young students are the future of Pakistan; it™s them who are going to make Pakistan a better and an advanced state. If government gives lead to their education than in next twenty years I see drastic changes in our education system and ultimately in our country™s status as well. But at the same state, I would say with no doubt that there is some sort of development but not to that altitude, to which it should be.

5. How well doesthe China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) sounds for Pakistan?

Ans.I personally think this project won™t be that much over-whelming as it sounds. At one side Gwadar would be a new deep port like Dubai but on the other hand we will be having a huge debt on our country in the form of loans. We will have to pay interest for China™s project, as this project is mainly built for China or the Chinese people not Pakistan.

6. Being associated with Punjab Baseball Federation (PBF), what your views on the emergence of young sports talent in Pakistan?

Ans.If I am going to get a chance to coach the National Sports Team of Pakistan my first priority would be, selecting a team or people on the bases of merit which will be done on strong and fair grounds of talent. Apart from this, I believe women should also come up in this sport and in other sports as well and represent Pakistan on both National and International level. So, special steps would be taken to encourage women teams and proper provision based on organised pattern would be adopted for their training.

7. According to you what should be done to increase the success ratio of our country?

Answer. I believe,now it™s the time when we have to give our 100% in every field to bring stability in our country and to increase the success ration of both; our people and our country.We should play a role as a true Pakistani and bring a desired change. Bring your passion to work, as it is not the time to think, but to act upon your aims and that can only be possible if you are raising brilliant students and concerned citizens.

8. What would be your message for youth and for our readers?

Ans. I would say youth and especially students, though of any age - should have a firm believe on themselves. They should never mislay hope and secondly never give-up to failure and don™t fear of the failure. Make as many mistakes as you can, because the best way of learning is through the element of mistakes. Even when I was in my teenage, I use to get dishearten if I fail to gain any achievement but I never lost hope or gave up at any point. This is the key factor of success, to note your mistakes each time you fail and keep trying again and again till you succeed.

1. Tell us about yourself?

Ans. Born and raised in Lahore and being the eldest child, I learnt the importance of responsibility and problem solving at an early age. I joined SOS Children™s Villages in Pakistan in January 2017. Before joining SOS, I worked for the education sector for almost 19 years, specifically in the administration and management department.

2. What was the reason to join SOS?

Ans. Growing up in Lahore, I was always aware of the presence of SOS Children™s Villages Pakistan. But I had never had the chance to visit any project. I was introduced to our president through a mutual friend. They had been looking to fill up this position. After the first meeting, I had the privilege of being offered the position. Having worked in the private sector for many years, I was a bit hesitant jumping into the non-profit sector. I think it was my motherly instinct which compelled me to seriously consider this option. I was also encouraged by my family and friends and above all, I received tremendous support from our president.

Ans. SOS Children™s Villages of Pakistan is proud to be making a meaningful contribution to nation building by developing a comprehensive social program for rehabilitating the most vulnerable members of our society “ orphans and abandoned children. This is our duty as concerned human beings. Our methodology is very simple and very basic. These children should be provided a home and all the advantages of a family life as similar as possible to that of a normal home. To achieve this end we establish SOS Children™s Villages based on four principles “ œThe Village, œThe Home, œA Mother and œBrothers and Sisters.

In Pakistan we are in our 42nd year of service. From the first project opened in 1977 we have grown to 56 projects. These include 14 Children™s Villages, 4 residential hostels, 12 Youth Homes, 22 Community Schools, 4 Technical and Vocational Centers, 3 Medical centers and 4 Children™s homes. We presently have SOS Children™s Villages and homes in Lahore, Dhodial, Karachi, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Multan, Khairpur, Jamshoro, Muzaffarabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Islamabad, Kharian and Sialkot.

Ans. Challenges are the part and parcel of any job, and these challenges enable us to strive for excellence. I think my toughest day was my first encounter with all the children. It was an overwhelming experience, which brought tears to my eyes. I think it was the mother in me, who was crying at the hard and traumatic backgrounds of these children. I wanted to immediately hug and kiss away all their troubles.

5. What is the admission criterion for the children to get enrolled in SOS? 

Ans. The detailed admission criterion is listed on our website. Enrollment age varies from newborn to 10 years. These include;

• Complete orphan, without either parent
• Children whose mothers have remarried and abandoned the children
• Children whose mothers are suffering from a terminal illness and father is deceased
• Lost or abandoned children

1. 6. How would you describe the essence of success?

Ans. SOS Children™s Villages Pakistan takes pride in our unique approach towards children and I believe that this has been the cornerstone of our success.

It is in how we put our fundamental belief "Every child belongs to a family and grows with love, respect and security." into action that sets us apart.

We believe that to provide a loving home, you have to understand that every child is unique. Every child comes from a different background, has different needs and different dreams. We are different because we truly put the child at the center of everything we do. We get to know every child and young person in our care, and each one has an individual development plan. We talk with the children and involve them. The individual child's best interests are at the heart of every decision. The other important factor of our success has been the continuous support of our donors and sponsors. We make it possible for children to live as children, to feel loved, protected and comfortable enough to build happy memories. I think this is our biggest achievement.

7. What is your greatest Strength?

Ans. My greatest strength lies with the immense support of my president and my board. I firmly believe that the success of any organization lies with its human capital. And by recognizing their efforts and giving them respect, we gain the important traits of loyalty, determination and trust.

8. Can you please enlighten us with your future plans in this Organization?

Ans. Our future plans are to keep on providing quality care to all the affected children of our community. SOS Children™s Villages do not admit those children who have mothers “ unless they have remarried and left their children with relatives, in which case they are categorized as œSocial orphans.

SOS Children™s Villages Pakistan started a pilot project in 2015 for the children of women-headed households in Johar Town, Lahore. This need was identified and SOS Children™s Villages Pakistan started work on this project.

The objective is to relieve the mothers of the responsibility of looking after the needs of the children, thus making it possible for them to find employment. We have already 4 such œChildren™s Homes operating in 4 cities.

9. Any message you want to give Children & Parents through our Magazine?

Ans. My wish for all the children in our care is the wish any mother would have for her loved ones to see them happy, well rounded, confident and responsible citizens of the country!

And for the parents, our children are our most prized possession. Please cherish them with all your heart.