The Pencils and Erasers Foundation

I am so proud to announce that I have finalized the selection of two highly qualified instructors for Raza Khan Primary School!

Though it had been months since construction work at the school had been completed, classes were delayed due to the unavailability of suitable and qualified teachers. After searching for nearly a year, I have settled on two individuals who will provide quality instruction based on a flexible, vigorous and culturally suitable curriculum to students.

Both teachers were chosen after a rigorous selection process which included enhanced background and credential verification checks and multiple staged interviews both online and in person.

There were several challenges during the search for qualified and appropriate instructors. Just one of such obstacles was finding someone who lived close enough to make the commute to Sandoka. However, during the search, it became clear that the quality of education would have to be sacrificed if instructors commuted daily. I consequently provided the option of living in the village to the instructors and visiting their home towns during the weekend, which created an open pool of qualified and suitable teachers for the school.

I have thus made sure to include a food and travel stipend as part of the teachers’ salary package. An agreement has also been made with one of the elders of the village to host them at his hujra (guest house) free of charge (while they pay for their own food).

Having the instructors live in Sandoka ensures that they are well rested and ready to teach when school commences. This will ensure the least possible effect on the students’ education due to external factors.

Through my meetings with both teachers, I have made sure emphasize the necessity of providing a holistic education to the children. In addition to being taught their daily lessons, all pupils will learn valuable career planning, athletic and home skills. Additionally, physical exercise will be a big part of their school schedule. To facilitate this latter focus, I am planning on constructing a basketball court in the immediate vicinity of the school, for which fundraising will soon begin.

Though another article focused on the curriculum and facilities offered by the school will be made available soon, I have emphasized to the village elders, parents and staff, the necessity of making the education of their children a community endeavor. In this manner, everyone will share both responsibility for the students’ education and foster an environment centered on socioeconomic progress through the attainment of education.