KABUL(BNA) During a program outlining the annual achievements of the Emirati institutions, officials from the Ministry of Education presented their one-year progress report at a press conference today at the Government Media Center.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister for Islamic Education, Mawlawi Karamatullah Akhundzada, revealed that last year, approximately 1,445,840 new students were enrolled in both public and private schools across Afghanistan. Additionally, 210 new schools were established nationwide, of which 106 are public and 104 are private institutions.
Furthermore, he noted that a total of 16,188,939 textbooks, covering grades one to twelve, were printed and distributed to provinces and schools throughout the country.
Akhundzada also highlighted that, for the first time, a standardized examinations board was established within the Ministry of Education, which has commenced its activities. Moreover, a question bank for grades four, five, and six has been prepared, and efforts are currently underway to develop standardized questions for other grades.
The Deputy Minister added that, in total, 152 public and private primary and middle schools were upgraded to secondary school status, while 119 public and private middle schools were elevated to high schools.
Additionally, he stated that 123 schools and 159 community-based classes were dedicated to educating nomadic children last year, with 41,824 students currently enrolled.
Akhundzada further mentioned that over the past year, educational opportunities have been provided for 484 children with disabilities in 18 provinces through special education centers. In addition, in 19 provinces, educational materials and facilities have been made available to 3,844 disabled students.
In response to a question, Ministry of Education officials emphasized that efforts have also begun to improve the quality of education in community-based classes across the country. These efforts aim to enhance teaching standards and reduce unnecessary expenses.
Bakhtar
