Rukhsana Zia, Foman Christian College University
Rukhsana Zia
Prof. / Head, Center for Learning and Teaching
Foman Christian College University

With a steadfast commitment to advancing education in Pakistan, my career spans both the public and private sectors and is driven by a passion for developing sustainable policies and large-scale programs. My approach is rooted in evidence-based data, ensuring quality and tangible results. I prioritize cost efficiency and impact, advocating for educational strategies that resonate with Pakistan's unique cultural and contextual needs while promoting a values-based mindset.

As the Head of the Center for Learning and Teaching at Forman Christian College University, I spearhead innovative professional development programs. Since 2020, the online resources have reached a global audience, with the website developed by me attracting over 10,000 unique visitors from 72 countries. Embracing peer learning and open access, I have shared two comprehensive programs on —Research Methodology and AI—across all campuses in Pakistan and with numerous international partners.

My professional journey includes collaborations with esteemed international organizations such as the World Bank, IMF, UNICEF, CIDA (securing a $50 million grant), GTZ, and various governmental and NGO entities within Pakistan. I have served on provincial and national educational boards, syndicates, and committees, extending my influence to global platforms.

Representing Pakistan at UNESCO headquarters in Paris for three years, I championed global equity in Education, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Communication, and Culture. My role included membership in UNESCO's Initiative on Education for All, the World Heritage Committee, drafting of Conventions on Intangible Heritage and another on Terrorism, and Coordinator for E-9 Countries Additionally, I contributed to auditing UNESCO’s finances and budgeting. My advocacy continued at the United Nations forums in New York, focusing on Child Rights and Women's Empowerment.

Under the Punjab Education Reform Program, I played a pivotal role in restructuring three major organizations to revolutionize teacher development (pre-service and in-service). I introduced an innovative continuous professional development framework for school teachers, a model later adopted by UNICEF for developing countries. One of my significant accomplishments was establishing the first-ever comprehensive database for Punjab's public school teachers, encompassing detailed bios of over 300,000 schoolteachers. This invaluable database continues to aid the Punjab Government in targeted educational and resource allocation programs.

rukhsanazia@fccollege.edu.pk