Model Schools: Transforming Government Primary Schools in Upper Chitral

This project is one of the most impactful initiatives of Worldwide Education Foundation (WEF), USA, in Chitral Valley. It addresses a critical gap in early primary education within government schools by improving the learning environment beyond Early Childhood Development (ECD) classrooms.

For several years, WEF has strengthened early education through the establishment of Learning Centers, which integrate Montessori-based Early Childhood Development (ECD) classrooms for children aged 3–6 and Technology-Assisted English Language Labs for children aged 6–11 across 10 government schools. These centers have already reached more than 2,000 students and trained 20 teachers, creating engaging, child-centered, and technology-supported early learning environments.

However, a key challenge emerged: after experiencing vibrant ECD classrooms, children moved into Grade 1 classrooms that were under-resourced and not child-friendly. This sudden shift risked disrupting their motivation, confidence, and continuity of learning.

To address this gap, WEF launched the Model School Project, a focused initiative to transform the rest of the classrooms into welcoming, developmentally appropriate, and stimulating learning spaces. The aim is to ensure a smooth and positive transition from ECD to primary education, preserving children’s curiosity and enthusiasm for learning.

With the support of dedicated Chitrali team and generous sponsors in the US, WEF has:

• Renovated all the classrooms in 10 Government Primary Schools.
• Created clean, bright, carpeted, and child-friendly learning environments
• Introduced access to educational technology and interactive learning tools
• Strengthened continuity between ECD and primary education

As a result, children entering Grade 1 now experience an environment that reflects the same warmth, structure, and encouragement they received in their early learning years—helping them build confidence and a sustained love for learning.

Growing Momentum through Partnership

This progress has been further strengthened through a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Foundation to Empower Students (FES), Pakistan and the Elementary and Secondary Education Department, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This partnership ensures long-term sustainability, institutional support, and the potential for scale.

WEF is envisioning setting up 600 more Model Schools by 2035 with projected investment of 2 million Dollars / 60 Crore Rupees.