Educators from more than 20 countries, including Pakistan, joined the World School Summit 2024 in Bangkok city of Thailand, wherein educators gathered for a three-day networking event. As per schedule, guest lectures, speeches, and panel discussions were held, followed by an award ceremony.
Educationists from Pakistan, including Huda Garib, Sadia Zulfikar, Arsla Qazi, Farman Ullah, Abid Wazir Khan, Mariam Ijaz, Muhammad Mustafa, Darakhshan Waqas, Zerfishan Adnan and Reham Afzal, won awards during the summit. “This World School Summit provides educators a platform to share best practices in education and to network with leaders in this domain from various nations,” Arsla Qazi, headmistress of Nova Premier School, told Jarida Today.
Arsla Qazi shares curriculum that integrates subjects like entrepreneurship, robotics, and ESTREAM
She said that they had developed a unique curriculum that integrates subjects like entrepreneurship, robotics, character-building, and ESTREAM (entrepreneurship, science, technology, robotics, engineering, arts, and mathematics), focusing on practical skills and social responsibility. “Our students are demonstrating exceptional achievements and impact through projects and initiatives, showcasing the effectiveness of our curriculum,” she said.
She acknowledged worth of the award and said that it highlights responsibility that comes with being in a leadership position in the education sector. She said that the award also highlights the school’s commitment to excellence and innovation, enhancing its reputation and credibility. About the impact of the World School Summit 2024, she said that it also had a profound impact on their perspectives and goals.
“I have moved away from traditional teaching methods to embrace innovative approaches that prioritize student-centered learning,” Arsla Qazi said. “We believe that every individual action counts and collective efforts can lead to significant positive change in global education outcomes. However, one has to stay up-to-date on global education news, research, and initiatives, and participate in ongoing conversations and efforts,” she said.
Sadia Zulfiqar suggests educators to stay updated with latest methodologies and technologies
Sadia Zulfiqar, another awardee at the summit, said that she has led projects in robotics and entrepreneurship, and has focused on integrating modern practical skills into the curriculum, which ultimately led to her participation in the World School Summit 2024. She said that receiving an award at the summit was both a personal and professional milestone. “Personally, it is a validation of my hard work, passion, and dedication to education,” she said, adding that it also motivated her to continue striving for educational advancement.
She said that educators should stay updated with the latest methodologies and technologies. She favored collaboration and sharing best practices beyond borders. Technology is revolutionizing education, and the education system is transforming inclusively. Now, it remains to be seen how far this will be incorporated in classrooms across Pakistan. Sadia Zulfiqar believes that the most significant trends shaping education include the integration of technology in classrooms, the rise of personalized and adaptive learning, and the focus on developing critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration.
She said that there was an increasing emphasis on social-emotional learning and the importance of mental health in the education sector. Technology also facilitates teacher training and professional development, ensuring that educators were equipped with the latest tools and knowledge to enhance learning. While Arsla Qazi said that by harnessing innovation and technology, a more equitable, effective and engaging education system can be created that prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
