Lahore
In 2007, Hoshyar learned of a struggling primary school that was about to shut down for lack of funding. As its first humanitarian project, Hoshyar adopted Al-Hamd and in 2009 constructed an eight-room building on donated land. Three years later, a second story was added to accommodate a science laboratory, library, and space for college prep classes. In 2013, classes leading to the qualifications of F.A. and F.Sc. (college prep) were introduced. The school at present includes instruction from nursery through higher secondary and enrolls about 275 students. Hoshyar pays all salaries, offers free pedagogical workshops, and provides English conversation classes for teachers. As well, our professional development program offers stipends to teachers pursuing advanced degrees and certification.
Each year, the top graduating students are honored at a prize ceremony. Science graduates receive a stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, and thermometer. In recent years, Al-Hamd graduates have achieved among the highest results in the Lahore Board Exams, earning scholarships to colleges affiliated with Punjab University. Hoshyar works to enrich the learning environment in several ways. We continue to develop the library collection. We supply uniforms and warm winter clothing, as well as back-up electricity to ensure reasonable comfort in hot weather or cold. All students and their families are eligible to receive free medical treatment through a voucher system, a program that improves the overall health of the community.