AKU-EB and BAEC Partner for Education Reform in Balochistan with World Bank Support
Aga Khan University Examination Board and BAEC introduce modern assessment tools and training to strengthen education quality in Balochistan.
The Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKU-EB), in collaboration with the Balochistan Assessment and Examination Commission (BAEC), has concluded a transformative education reform project aimed at improving assessment quality and learning outcomes in Balochistan. Funded by the World Bank, the initiative focused on modern tools, capacity building, and sustainable improvements in the province’s education system.
KARACHI/QUETTA: In a major step toward education reform in Pakistan, the Aga Khan University Examination Board (AKU-EB) has successfully completed a capacity building and technical support project with the Balochistan Assessment and Examination Commission (BAEC).
This impactful initiative was part of the Balochistan Human Capital Investment Project, funded by the World Bank and led by the Project Management Unit (PMU) of the Government of Balochistan. The project aims to improve assessment quality, learning outcomes, and overall educational development in Balochistan.
Focus on Modern Assessment Tools and Institutional Capacity
Under the guidance of education experts from AKU-EB, the project focused on developing institutional capacity within BAEC and the Bureau of Curriculum. It emphasized modern assessment methods grounded in validity, reliability, fairness, and contextual relevance. The four-phase project structure offered practical training, real-life case engagement, and hands-on development of large-scale, sample-based assessments.
A major milestone was the creation of a detailed Assessment Framework and Background Questionnaire for Grade IV and VIII. These tools are designed to not only support system-wide testing in Balochistan but also improve classroom teaching, learning, and evaluation standards.
AKU-EB Reaffirms Commitment to Fair Education
Dr. Naveed Yousuf, CEO of AKU-EB, emphasized the importance of fair assessment in quality education. “Access to quality education begins with meaningful assessment. This collaboration reflects our commitment to strengthening public education systems through strategic partnerships,” he said.
Professor Dr. Anjum Halai, Vice Provost at Aga Khan University, highlighted the broader impact. “Well-designed assessments can elevate teaching practices. With AKU-EB’s evidence-based approach, we are transforming how national curriculum schools experience education,” she stated.
Government of Balochistan Backs the Initiative
Ms. Raheela Hameed Khan Durrani, Balochistan’s Education Minister, attended the closing ceremony as Chief Guest. She praised the collaboration between AKU-EB and BAEC, calling it a model for future institutional partnerships. She noted that digital tools and modern assessment techniques will bring transparency and strengthen educational governance.
She reaffirmed the Government of Balochistan’s commitment to educational reforms and expressed full support to expand the project’s benefits across the province.
Participants Praise Practical Learning Approach
Participants of the training program appreciated the project’s applied learning model. “It wasn’t just theory—we experienced how to apply principles like validity, transparency, and accountability in real-life settings,” one of them remarked.
A Model for Sustainable Education Reform in Pakistan
This collaborative project between AKU-EB and BAEC sets a new benchmark in public-private partnerships in education. It promotes sustainable, evidence-based reforms tailored to the needs of learners in underserved regions like Balochistan.
With continuous support and forward-looking leadership, this partnership stands as a strong example of how investment in assessment can transform Pakistan’s education system.
