By Meng Fanrong

GWADAR, Jul. 18, (China Economic Net)- A Chinese-backed school on the southwestern coast of Balochistan, built on land donated by a local family, is giving hundreds of children their first chance at formal education. For a teacher trained in China, the school is more than a job; it is a mission.

For Naseem Baloch, education is the light that brightens lives and opens minds, a force he believes has the power to connect people across borders. "I am proud to be a small part of this meaningful journey," he said.

Naseem works as a teacher of English, Urdu and history and is also a coordinator at the China-Pakistan Government Girls High School Faqeer Colony Gwadar. The school, often referred to as the China-Pak Friendship School, currently serves approximately 550 students from Kindergarten to Class 10, supported by 22 teaching and non-teaching staff.

Naseem Baloch teaches in a class at the the China-Pakistan Government Girls High School Faqeer Colony Gwadar, photo provided to CEN

He earned a master's degree in higher education from Central China Normal University in Wuhan from 2019 to 2021. The curriculum of his master's program covers education management, comparative education, education finance, education policy, research methodology, history and quality assurance. Naseem now applies much of what he learned during his graduate studies to his work at the school. He explained that "I try to promote quality education, improve school management and inspire my students to think beyond geographical boundaries."

The school where Naseems works holds special significance. His father donated the land in 2015 for a project funded by the China Foundation for Peace and Development. Inaugurated in September 2016 as a primary school, it became a middle school in 2017 and a high school in 2024. The Chinese Embassy has funded teachers and assisted with maintenance, while China Overseas Ports Holding Company has played an important role in managing and supporting the development of the school.

The China-Pakistan Government Girls High School Faqeer Colony Gwadar, photo provided to CEN

Every student who enters the school carries a dream for the future and each graduate represents another step towards a more educated, prosperous and peaceful Gwadar. He highlighted that "the school has strengthened the local community by promoting equal educational opportunities regardless of social or economic background, teaching students not only academic subjects but also values such as respect, responsibility, cooperation and service to society."

Before the school's establishment, there was no educational institution in this part of Gwadar. Many children, especially girls from low-income families, remained out of school. Today, quality education is available free of cost at their doorstep. "Every child in our area has the opportunity to receive quality education now," Naseem added.

Parents who once believed that educating their daughters was financially impossible now see their children attending school daily. "One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is hearing parents express their gratitude," Naseem said. "Now their children are attending school every day and dreaming of becoming teachers, doctors, engineers and other professionals."

Several graduates have continued their education at colleges and universities, representing the first generation in many families to pursue higher education. One particularly encouraging success story is that of Haleema, who completed her early education at the school and is now pursuing higher education at the University of Balochistan, the oldest and largest public university in the province.

Beyond academic success, the school has seen memorable visits from Chinese delegations. Students welcome them with cultural performances and words of thanks. "These exchanges help build mutual understanding from an early age," Naseem said. "I believe these children will grow up with a deep appreciation for international friendship and cooperation."

"The China-Pak Friendship School is one of the most valuable gifts to the people of Gwadar," Naseem noted. "Education is an investment that transforms lives for generations. An educated child can uplift an entire family, and an educated community can shape a brighter future for a nation."

Looking ahead, he sees tremendous potential to expand cooperation in digital education. "China has made remarkable progress in educational technology, artificial intelligence, smart classrooms and online learning. Sharing this expertise through digital laboratories, teacher training programs, virtual classrooms and online lectures by Chinese professors would greatly benefit students and teachers in Pakistan, particularly in remote areas such as Balochistan."

Naseem's interest in China predated his academic journey. He first visited the country in 2016 on a trip abroad that became a turning point in his life. "I was deeply impressed by China's rapid development, modern infrastructure, clean and green cities, efficient public services and, above all, the kindness and hospitality of the Chinese people," he recalled.

A PhD in Education in China is one of Naseem's top personal and professional goals. "I believe it is an ideal environment for researchers who wish to contribute to educational development," he said. He hopes to study educational leadership, quality enhancement and international cooperation through CPEC. "My goal is not only to earn another degree but also to gain practical experience I can bring back to Pakistan," he concluded.