In an effort to promote science education in Sindh, it has been decided to arrange study visits for public school students to Pakistan’s first interactive science centre, Magnifi Science Centre.
Sindh Education Minister Syed Sardar Ali Shah announced that six modern science education centres will be established at the divisional level across the province. Additionally, a formal annual calendar of observation-based study visits for public school students will also be issued.
He said that the Sindh government has already initiated efforts to promote science education. The successful organization of STEAM competitions marked the beginning of this initiative, and the decision to establish science centres is a continuation of these efforts.
In this regard, the education minister visited Pakistan’s first science museum, Magnifi Science Centre, established by The Dawood Foundation in Karachi today, where he was received by Chief Executive Officer Fawad Soomro. The minister inspected various sections of the centre. During the briefing, it was highlighted that this is Pakistan’s first modern and interactive science centre of its kind, where science is presented in an engaging and practical manner.
Shah stated that study visits are essential to connect public school students with scientific observation. He emphasized that in the modern era, textbook education alone is not sufficient; it is equally important to provide opportunities for practical experience and observational learning. He said, “In this age of technology, we cannot afford to leave our children behind.”
Moreover, the Sindh government will establish six science centres at the divisional level, which will be operated in collaboration with the private sector. In this regard, the experiences and recommendations of MagnifiScience Centre are being utilized to ensure effective implementation of the project.
The occasion also included discussions on further strengthening cooperation between the Sindh Government and The Dawood Foundation. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected to be finalized by the end of February, under which a formal mechanism will be developed and an annual calendar issued for study visits of public school students to MagnifiScience Centre.
This will enable students from public schools across Sindh to undertake study visits free of charge. The calendar will also include visits to heritage sites, cultural centres, and other national heritage locations.
The Sindh cabinet has already approved a grant for this project, under which Rs30 million will be provided in the current fiscal year and up to Rs. 60 million in the next fiscal year. The government will also establish a formal annual payment mechanism to facilitate students. Shah said these study visits will provide students with hands-on and experiential learning opportunities, fostering scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.
