The World Bank has launched two major projects in Balochistan to reduce learning poverty and address water security challenges with a total funding of $194 million.
Najy Benhassine, the World Bank Country Director for Pakistan, highlighted the importance of these initiatives.
The GRADES-Balochistan project aims to reduce learning poverty and improve literacy and numeracy skills for around 250,000 students.
Key interventions under GRADES project include expanding early childhood education, providing safe transport, constructing climate-resilient classrooms, and enhancing teacher training.
The Balochistan Water Security and Productivity Improvement Project (BWSPIP) will enhance water access for smallholder farmers and improve water supply services for residents in Quetta.
BWSPIP focuses on improving flood protection, water availability for productive use, and service delivery efficiency, benefiting over 500,000 people.
Both projects aim to support agriculture, reduce climate-related risks, and empower women through community-level water governance.
The initiatives align with Pakistan's Resilient Recovery Framework and the Country Partnership Framework for inclusive human development and climate resilience.
The projects address urgent needs to reduce learning poverty and child stunting through improved education and water access.
The initiatives represent a strategic effort by the World Bank to tackle foundational development challenges in Balochistan.
Carolina Dominguez Torres, Task Team Leader for BWSPIP, highlighted the long-term benefits of the project for farmers and Quetta residents.
Inga Afanasieva, Team Leader for the GRADES project, emphasized the strategic importance of improving early education access and quality in Balochistan.
The World Bank's investments aim to build infrastructure, support human development, and create job opportunities in Balochistan.
These projects lay the groundwork for a healthier, more educated, and climate-resilient population in Balochistan.
The initiatives are part of the World Bank's commitment to supporting strategic investments in infrastructure and human development in Balochistan.
Both projects play a crucial role in achieving inclusive human development and climate resilience as outlined in the 10-year Country Partnership Framework for Pakistan.