According to recent reports from UNICEF, over 20 million chil-dren in Pakistan do not attend school for various reasons. Most of these children are from the poorest and most marginalized communities. In line with the mission initiated by the late foun-der, Hamdard Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said, to empower the nation with knowledge and skills, Ms. Sadia Rashid, President of Hamdard Pakistan, has taken a principled stance to address this issue. Under her directions, the Naunehal Mobile Library pilot project was launched in March 2023.
This initiative aims to provide basic education to out-of-school children employed in workshops, hotels, and shops in Neelam Colony and Tuba Masjid DHA Phase II of Karachi.
The Mobile Library functions as a roving school, organizing teaching camps in specific areas. Children are enrolled and taught subjects such as English, Mathematics, Islam, Arts, and Pakistan Studies, with homework assignments provided. Devoted teachers, committed to the spirit of service, employ innovative and straightforward teaching methods. To enhance the children’s interest, Doodh Rooh Afza is provided as a reward for memorizing lessons. Additionally, the monthly Hamdard Nau-nehal serves as a gift to instill a habit of studying.
Farhan Hussain, the manager of the Naunehal brand, expresses gratitude for the support received from the DHA authority, the local government, and the community. “The Naunehal Mobile Library has garnered appreciation from the neighborhood, with nearby businesses generously allowing two hours off for the children to attend classes.” This pilot project, according to Mr. Hussain, has received positive responses, and Ms. Sadia Rashid is enthusiastic about its expansion. Plans are underway to extend this initiative to different areas of the city in the near future.
