To examine the reasons for the high drop out rate among Kachi children, especially girls, UNICEF-Balochistan and the Bureau of Curriculum, Balochistan, commissioned TRC to conduct a study on the learning needs and available environment in Kachi classes within the province. We developed survey instruments and questions for focus group discussions and teacher interviews, to establish the status of the Kachi environment, including physical facilities, resources and teaching competency. The survey was conducted in a random sampling of 107 Unicef supported, public sector schools in the districts of Pashin and Kalat.

A session with children who had dropped out was conducted to gain insights into their views on how they felt about school and why they no longer attend. Focus group discussions were also carried out to gain insight from mothers and fathers with children who had dropped out of Kachi class, as well as from the general community and the PTAs. Finally, interviews were conducted with decision-makers within the provinceâ??s education sector.

The results of the study have been analysed and a report was submitted to UNICEF in June. A seminar for policy makers will be held in August in Quetta. The presentation identifies the opportunities and gaps of the Kachi environment in Balochistan, and includes recommendations and proposed actions for effective implementation of the National ECE Curriculum, for government decision-makers in the region. The presentation will be made by the Bureau of Curriculum Balochistan, with the support of Unicef staff.