Murabbi

In a landmark collaboration, Murabbi, Pakistan's leading EdTech organization, has partnered with the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training and the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) to launch the "Coding, Robotics, and AI Learning for Primary Students" initiative. The program, signed into effect on August 29, 2024, aims to equip 155 primary schools across Islamabad with cutting-edge tech education over a two-year period.

Vision: Sustainable, Scalable Tech Literacy

The initiative addresses Pakistan's digital divide by prioritizing accessibility and affordability. Key components include:

Open-Source Curriculum: Replaces expensive robotics kits with free online tools and low-cost materials, ensuring scalability in underfunded schools.
Industry-Aligned Content: Integrates AI modules inspired by IBM's educational resources and Google's "Be Internet Awesome" cyber-safety program.
Academic Rigor: Leverages NUST's expertise in coding and robotics to design age-appropriate lessons for Grades 1–5.

"Our curriculum is built for government schools—minimal cost, maximum impact," stated Dr. Nazir Perwaiz, CEO of Murabbi.

Recruitment: Merit-Based and Inclusive

To staff the program, Murabbi conducted a transparent, two-phase recruitment drive:

Phase 1: Targeted postgraduate students from NUST's School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (SEECS). Applicants underwent a 30-minute automated test proctored via Safe Exam Browser, a plagiarism-proof platform.
Phase 2: Expanded nationally, attracting candidates from Lahore, Karachi, and Peshawar.

Results:

121 applicants screened, with 73 Coding Fellows ultimately selected.
26% female representation, prioritizing urban placements for accessibility.

"We combined merit with inclusivity to build a team that reflects Pakistan's diversity," said Javed Iqbal, FDE Project Lead.

Program Components

Learning Management System (LMS):
- Tracks student progress through auto-graded quizzes.
- Monitors Coding Fellow performance via feedback from students, teachers, and administrators.
Training Bootcamp:
- A 5-day intensive workshop at NUST (September 23–28, 2024) trained Fellows in:
  - Scratch/Python Programming
  - AI Ethics and Applications
  - Low-Cost Robotics using open-source simulations.

Progress to Date

Pilot Success: A week-long demonstration at Islamabad College for Girls F-6/2 in August 2024 saw overwhelming student engagement. "Children begged for the sessions to continue," reported the school's Head of Department.
Deployment: As of October 2024, 73 Coding Fellows have been assigned to schools across Islamabad, with priority given to underserved sectors like G-7, F-6, and I-8.

Next Steps

Timetable Integration: Collaborate with school administrations to formalize tech modules into daily schedules.
Rural Expansion: Extend the program to 30 rural schools within Islamabad's territory by mid-2025.
Monitoring: Use LMS data to refine teaching strategies and resource allocation.

Quote: "This isn't just about coding—it's about empowering a generation to lead Pakistan's digital future."
– Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Secretary, Ministry of Federal Education