Saadia Adnan is igniting the process of transformation in Pakistan’s education system – beginning with its first ever national educational TV channel.
Like many other countries across the globe, the COVID-19 situation hit Pakistan hard, with lockdowns and restrictions in place including the closure of schools. In her role within Pakistan’s federal education system, Saadia Adnan (MEd(LeaderMgmt) ’15) helped to ensure continuity in education to over 40 million children across the country through the creation of a national educational TV channel, TeleSchool.
“We had a small but dedicated team and a very ambitious project to achieve,” says Saadia. The project was successfully implemented with positive feedback and is now transitioning online.
“TeleSchool promises phenomenal change – it reflects the possibility in every situation and an alternative way forward of innovation.”
Saadia’s belief in change was instilled during her studies at Flinders University where she completed her Master of Education (Leadership & Management) as an Australian Award recipient.
She says, “Today, I can say that I am not the same Saadia that left Pakistan to study this program. I have become a completely new self – a better one. I have learned the art of seeking possibilities amidst the rigid bureaucratic system here.
“Today, I am equipped to lead transformative change.”
Saadia says her experience at Flinders has left her with a wealth of cherished memories which have become a source of inspiration. “Amongst them the memories of very engaging and thoughtful discussions during the classes, led by very capable teachers in an intelligent and fruitful way.”
Along with leading a secondary girls’ school as Principal, Saadia is now working as Pakistan’s Director Academics, Federal Directorate of Education, Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training. She is looking forward to bringing significant changes to the academic environment for students and creating innovative teacher training programs in her home country.
With plans to design a reformative and innovative course for education leadership and establish a new learning space Saadia says, “I now aspire to delve into deep rooted research in changing roles of education leadership in Pakistan and dream of building a better and promising tomorrow.”
Saadia Adnan was awarded a 2020 Early Career Alumni Award for her significant contribution to equity, access and quality of education across Pakistan through the innovative delivery of educational programming to more than 40 million children during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nominations are now open for the 2021 Alumni Awards to recognise Flinders University graduates who are making a difference in their field, to the community or to the University.
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