Duration: 2022-2027
Location: Gilgit-Baltistan (10 districts) and Chitral ( 2 districts)
Donors: Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)
Project Description: The School Improvement Programme (SIP) is a transformative education initiative implemented by the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) in collaboration with other Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) agencies and government partners. Operating across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, SIP seeks to enhance equitable access to quality education in government and community-based schools through a holistic, community-driven approach.
The programme focuses on improving teaching and learning practices, strengthening school leadership, and creating inclusive, child-friendly learning environments—particularly for girls. It integrates key components such as early childhood development, foundational literacy and numeracy, gender equity, and inclusive pedagogy to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive.
A cornerstone of SIP is its emphasis on community engagement. By mobilising parents, mothers’ groups, and school management committees, the programme strengthens local ownership, accountability, and active participation in school improvement processes. Schools are supported to develop and implement strategic School Development Plans (SDPs) and Annual School Improvement Plans (ASIPs) tailored to their specific contexts and needs. SIP also invests in the professional development of teachers and headteachers through training on child-centred teaching methods, multigrade classroom management, early childhood education, and instructional leadership. These efforts are further supported by initiatives to promote a culture of reading, including the establishment and enhancement of school and community libraries.