2010 Annual Report: Education - PartnershipsInAction

Ye a r i n R e v i e w : E d u c a t i o n
A leading development priority for the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) is the
promotion of quality education for all. From early childhood development to
higher education, AKF is ensuring that marginalized groups – girls, the
economically disadvantaged, physically challenged and geographically remote
– are able to access quality education, stay in school longer and attain higher
academic achievements.
In Sub-Saharan Africa, half of children do not complete five years of primary
school. Globally, India and Pakistan account for 30 percent of out-of-school
primary aged children. These are the environments in which the Foundation
works.
AKF USA partners with other AKDN agencies
as well as non-governmental organizations,
civil society groups and governments
to implement effective education programs.
Ensuring that education is accessible is only half of the battle. A good
education is not defined by mere access to a classroom or a teacher. With
relevant curriculums, more engaging learning environments and dynamic
teaching methods, children leave AKF classrooms better prepared to tackle
life’s most challenging issues – whether that means providing for a family,
starting a business or leading a community.
Strengthening partnerships goes hand-in-hand with strengthening education
systems. By facilitating better links between governments and school boards
and parents and teachers, the Foundation uses the power of partnerships to
ensure its education programs are long-lasting. AKF partners with other
agencies within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) as well as other
non-governmental organizations, civil society groups and governments to
implement effective education programs.