World Bank approves $194 million for education, water security in Balochistan
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The World Bank has approved $194 million in financing for two key projects aimed at boosting education and water security in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan, state television PTV reported.
In a statement issued Wednesday, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Najy Benhassine said the funding would support the GRADES-Balochistan education initiative and a separate Water Security and Productivity Improvement project.
'The GRADES-Balochistan project aims to reduce learning poverty in the province, while the Balochistan Water Security and Productivity Improvement Project will help address the province's water security challenges and enhance climate resilience,' Benhassine said.
He added that the World Bank remains committed to supporting Balochistan through strategic investments that promote job creation, reduce poverty, and strengthen resilience.
Access and Delivery of Quality Education Services in Balochistan (GRADES) project will receive $100 million. It aims to benefit 250,000 students by improving enrollment and learning outcomes in early childhood and primary education.
The project includes the construction of climate-resilient classrooms, provision of safe transportation, expanded school shifts, and public-private partnerships.
It will also support the professional development of 5,000 teachers and award scholarships to 400 female students for pre-service teacher training.
'The GRADES-Balochistan project is a strategically important initiative that addresses critical gaps in access to and quality of pre-primary and primary education in the province,' said Inga Afanasieva, the project's team leader.
The remaining $94 million will go toward enhancing water productivity and climate resilience across key districts in Balochistan.
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