By Hina Kiyani
ISLAMABAD: Students of the educational institutions run by Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) will be able to explore celestial objects through the use of telescopes and stimulate their interest in the space sciences.
In this regard, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT) and FDE are launching an initiative to promote astronomy and STEM education among students.
According to an official source, the Ministry of Education and Professional Training through FDE will provide support to the schools to purchase telescopes.
The initiative will help promote STEM education and inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers. This initiative is a significant step towards nurturing scientific curiosity and interest in astronomy among students.
The knowledgeable staff member will supervise students during telescope use while the staff and students are being trained on telescope operation and safety.
The regular observation sessions will be held even during significant astronomical events. The students are supposed to maintain an Observation log during the Observation Sessions, the source said. The regular cleaning and inspections of the telescopes will be maintained to prevent damage.
The telescope use will be integrated into science curriculum and research projects and astronomy clubs will be encouraged. The resources will be utilized from Kainat Studios, PakAstronomers and Pakistan Science Club.
The objective behind this initiative is to inspire passion for astronomy and scientific discovery among students and foster a generation of curious, informed, and enthusiastic scientists.
About the implementation of this initiative, the official source said that the school principals have to utilize allocated funds judiciously and ensure telescopes are used to their fullest potential to enrich students’ educational journeys.
On the other hand, Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan has said that youth comprising 65 percent of the population was the future of Pakistan.
Talking to APP here Sunday, Mashhood said the young generation can play a major role in the prosperity and stability of the country and Pakistan has a talented youth and has a pivotal role in advancing the country towards fast-paced development.
“We are dedicated to preparing our youth to excel in diverse fields, from technology-driven industries to traditional crafts. This holistic approach will enable them to contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s socio-economic development,” he added.
The Chairman PMYP added that youth were misled in the recent past from the right path, “We know what is happening in Syria, Iraq, Egypt, Libya and Yemen; where youth is on the street, unemployed and without education.”
The same attempt, he said was also made here to destroy Pakistan but Pakistan under the slogan of Azm-e-Istehkam” or the Resolve for Stability has a comprehensive plan showing Pakistan’s commitment to securing long-term stability including economic, diplomatic and security components to achieve a stable and prosperous Pakistan.
