Montessori classes at govt schools soon

Islamabad

Here is good news for the parents from low-income groups: the Capital Administration and Development Division has planned to start free Montessori classes at government schools in Islamabad.

The initiative, which is part of the Prime Minister’s Educational Reforms Programme overseen by the prime minister's daughter, Maryam Nawaz, is the first in the country’s history.

Currently, only privately-owned schools offer Montessori education.

With those of good repute charging exorbitant fee, the people from low income groups either don't give their children the formal preschool education or enrol them for the purpose in low-quality schools.

A CADD official in the know said initially, Montessori education would be offered in five schools for free of charge and later, the system would be replicated in all other government educational institutions of the Islamabad Capital Territory.

He said special rooms with colourful, engaging learning materials would be developed for Montessori classes, while the students would be provided with uniform and lunch including light food and milk.

The official said the initiative was likely to receive an overwhelming response from parents.

The government schools and colleges in Islamabad totaling over 400 are overseen by the CADD through the federal Directorate of Education.