Education Fellows Training GB 2024

Empowering Education in Gilgit-Baltistan

My Journey in Transforming Math Teaching

From October 15, 2024, to November 12, 2024, I had the privilege of being part of a transformative project of the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB)'s government with Agha Khan University, where I along with the esteemed faculty from the LUMS Mathematics Department trained 1,200 newly hired education fellows across all 10 districts of GB, focusing on "Gamifying Math Teaching"—an innovative approach to make mathematics engaging and fun for students.

The Journey Across Four Districts

Over the span of a month, I traveled to four districts:

• Skardu with Dr. Waqas Ali Azhar

• Kharmang with Dr. Waqas Ali Azhar

• Ghanche with Dr. Imran Anwar

• Diamer with Dr. Adnan Khan

In each district, We spent an entire week meeting incredibly motivated teachers eager to learn new techniques to revolutionize their classrooms. Our sessions focused on making abstract mathematical concepts tangible and engaging, ensuring that students find joy and curiosity in learning.

Overcoming Challenges with Community Support

While the scenic landscapes of GB were awe-inspiring, the journey came with its share of logistical challenges. For instance, electricity issues posed a significant hurdle. However, the local communities went above and beyond, arranging solar energy specifically for our training venues. Their kindness and determination were deeply inspiring and a testament to their commitment to education.

Techniques and Impact

During the training, we introduced techniques like:

• Gamified Exercises: Turning math problems into games that encourage participation and teamwork.

• Interactive Tools: Incorporating visual aids and digital tools to simplify complex topics.

• Practical Applications: Teaching math through real-life scenarios to make it relatable for students.

The enthusiasm and curiosity of the education fellows made the entire experience unforgettable. It was heartening to see their dedication to bringing about meaningful change in their schools.

Reflections

This experience was more than just a professional engagement; it was a humbling reminder of the power of education and community. The determination of the teachers, combined with the kindness of the local communities, reaffirmed my belief in the transformative potential of collaborative efforts in education.

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