Peshawar, March 30, 2026 The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa marked a significant milestone in the education sector by hosting its first-ever provincial STEAM competition under the ILMpact programme in Peshawar. The event took place at Government Girls Higher Secondary School Lady Griffith, bringing together students, teachers, and education leaders from across the province.
Participation from Across the Province
The competition saw enthusiastic participation from eight districts, including Mansehra, Swabi, Shangla, Dera Ismail Khan, Buner, Battagram, Charsadda, and Peshawar. A total of 167 innovative projects were submitted, with selected entries showcased at the provincial-level event.
These projects were the result of over 1,050 STEAM-based learning activities conducted in more than 120 schools, reflecting the growing integration of practical and creative learning approaches in public education. Around 200 students and teachers attended the event, highlighting strong engagement from both learners and educators.
Showcasing Innovation and Creativity
Students presented a diverse range of projects, demonstrating creativity and problem-solving skills. The exhibits included:
- Mathematics-based interactive games
- Origami engineering models
- Recycled product innovations
- Balloon-powered vehicles
These projects illustrated how students are applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, a core objective of STEAM education.
Focus on Practical Learning
During the opening ceremony, the Secretary of the Elementary & Secondary Education Department emphasized the importance of moving beyond traditional exam-focused education.
He stated that education should focus on deep conceptual understanding and real-life application, enabling students to innovate and lead in the digital age. He further highlighted that STEAM initiatives are helping transform classrooms into hubs of creativity and innovation.
Promoting Girls’ Education and Empowerment
Dr. Javed Ahmed Malik, who attended the event, underscored the programme’s strong commitment to girls’ education. He noted that providing girls with access to quality education and hands-on STEAM opportunities is essential for building confidence, leadership skills, and long-term economic participation.
The event also recognized teachers and school leaders for their critical role in fostering an environment that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and innovation.
Government’s Commitment to Education
In his closing remarks, Faisal Khan Tarakai reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector.
He highlighted that:
- Education, particularly for girls, remains a top priority
- The education budget has been significantly increased
- Efforts are underway to improve IT and science lab facilities
- Pilot initiatives in artificial intelligence are being introduced
- Special focus is being placed on underserved and merged districts
He stressed that the goal is not only to improve access but also to ensure quality education that prepares students for modern challenges.
Role of ILMpact Programme
The ILMpact programme, implemented in partnership with the British Council, continues to promote hands-on learning across government schools. The initiative is playing a key role in developing confident, capable, and curious students equipped with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
A Step Towards Future-Ready Education
The successful hosting of this provincial STEAM competition reflects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s growing focus on modernizing education and nurturing innovation among students. By integrating practical learning with academic knowledge, the province is taking meaningful steps toward building a future-ready generation.
