ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has approved $194 million in funding to support key development initiatives in Pakistan, focusing on the education and water sectors in Balochistan. The funds are aimed at expanding access to quality education and improving water infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas.
Of the total amount, $100 million has been allocated under the “Access to Quality Education Project.” This initiative aims to enhance the quality of education across Balochistan, benefitting approximately 250,000 children. It also includes comprehensive teacher training programs, with 5,000 educators expected to receive professional development. Additionally, 400 female students will be awarded scholarships to support their journey toward becoming future teachers, promoting gender equity in education.
The remaining $94 million will be directed toward a separate project focused on enhancing water supply systems and improving water availability, particularly for agricultural use. A substantial portion of this investment will target infrastructure development in Quetta to ensure better water access for both urban and agricultural communities.
The World Bank emphasized that this funding aligns with Pakistan’s broader development goals, particularly in light of the government’s National Economic Transformation Plan, known as Uraan Pakistan. The Ministry of Economic Affairs is currently working on a comprehensive implementation framework to ensure the effective execution of these projects.
This development follows the World Bank’s earlier announcement of a $40 billion investment in Pakistan from 2026 to 2035 under its Country Partnership Framework (CPF). Notably, the CPF marks the first time the World Bank has committed to a 10-year strategy for Pakistan, reflecting a long-term partnership to support sustainable economic and social growth in the country.
These projects are expected to contribute significantly to human capital development and resource sustainability in one of Pakistan’s most underserved provinces.
