Rukhsana Zia, Forman Chrisitian College University
Rukhsana Zia
Head, CLT
Forman Chrisitian College University

My career spans both the public and private sectors, from teaching to high-profile leadership positions. With passionate commitment to advancing education in Pakistan, I have consistently demonstrated skill and leadership in developing sustainable policies and large-scale programs. My approach is rooted in evidence-based data, ensuring quality and tangible results. In all my multiple roles, I have prioritized cost efficiency and impact, advocating for strategies that resonate with Pakistan's unique cultural and contextual needs while promoting a values-based mindset.

As the only education developer at Forman Christian College University, I initiated innovative professional development programs. Over the years, our events grew in credibility and satisfaction. 2020 onwards, our work expanded with the website developed by me, attracting over 10,000 unique visitors from 72 countries. A couple of our annual free access courses now reach all 175 Pakistani and another 60 international campuses.

My professional journey includes collaborations with esteemed international organizations such as the World Bank, IMF, UNICEF, CIDA (secured a $50 million grant), GTZ, and various governmental and NGO entities within Pakistan for provincial-level mega projects. I have served on provincial and national boards, syndicates, and committees, various international 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, and the drafting of conventions on 'Intangible Heritage' and on 'Terrorism'. I was also the coordinator for E-9 countries. Additionally, I contributed to the audit of UNESCO’s finances and budget. My advocacy continued at the United Nations forums in New York on child rights and women's empowerment.

Under the Punjab Education Reform Program, I played a pivotal role in restructuring three major organizations and revolutionized 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. Among others, my significant accomplishment was establishing the FIRST EVER database for Punjab, with detailed bios of over 300,000 public schoolteachers. This database enabled me to make informed decisions and now aids the Punjab government in targeted educational and resource allocation programs.

rukhsanazia@fccollege.edu.pk