In a significant step towards empowering students with digital education, a state-of-the-art, solar-powered IT lab has been inaugurated at Government High School Sardar Gari, Peshawar. This initiative aims to provide vital digital skills to students from both the host and Afghan refugee communities, fostering inclusivity and opportunity.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr. Arno Kirchhof, Deputy Ambassador of the German Embassy Islamabad, highlighting the importance of this project. This lab is part of a larger initiative by SRSP in partnership with GIZ under the EHS project, which has successfully established 10 IT labs across four districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). These labs are already making a tangible impact, benefiting over 4,593 students from both host and Afghan communities.

The solar-powered aspect of the lab underscores a commitment to sustainable development, ensuring reliable access to technology even in areas with inconsistent power supply. The initiative is not just about providing hardware; it’s about building a foundation for digital literacy and future opportunities.

During his visit, Deputy Ambassador Kirchhof also engaged with the school’s commitment to environmental awareness. He planted a sapling in the school’s green area, symbolizing growth and sustainability. He also met with members of the Green Club, where students showcased their artistic talents through paintings that vividly depicted climate change issues. This interaction highlighted the students’ awareness and concern for environmental challenges.

Furthermore, the Deputy Ambassador had the opportunity to interact with Parent-Teacher Council (PTC) members, teachers, and students, gaining valuable insights into the school’s dynamic and the project’s impact on the community.

The event was also attended by key officials, including the Special Secretary of the KP Elementary & Secondary Education Department, the District Education Officer (DEO) Peshawar (Male), PTC members, students, and SRSP staff, demonstrating a collaborative effort to enhance educational opportunities in the region.

This initiative represents a significant stride towards bridging the digital divide and empowering young minds with the skills they need to thrive in the 21st century. The partnership between SRSP and GIZ, with the support of the German Embassy, is paving the way for a brighter, digitally inclusive future for the students of Peshawar.