Imagine you wake up one day and realise  you have to do everything by hand. Write letters instead of sending messages, walk long distances instead of calling a ride, and spend hours searching for information in books instead of looking it up in seconds. That’s how life would be without technology and cellphones. Technology has accelerated human efforts toward development and progression providing alternate pathways that make tasks easier. However, technology is like a pathway: when used wisely, it takes us closer to development but when misused, it can lead us astray. Parents all around the globe are concerned over the amount of time their children are spending on their phones. Their concerns are certainly valid as according to a recent Islamabad based study children between the ages of 7 and 10 spent an average of four hours daily on screens (3 hours more than the maximum recommended limit). This overexposed and unattended use of technology has adversely affected students ability to perform and behave appropriately in different settings. Not only has it impacted their academic performance but has also shortened their attention span and learning ability. As a result, students grow restless, lose interest in reading and discussions, and miss out on creative or emotionally balanced engagement. This dependence erodes their tolerance, making them restless when faced with tasks that require time and patience. Over-dependence on gadgets narrows the space for imagination and creativity, as students consume pre-made digital content instead of generating their own ideas. When they are supposed to engage in creative activities such as drawing, painting or reading they spent their time doom scrolling, leaving little room to exercise their creative freedom. Sunbeams recognises the challenges posed by technology but does not believe in completely eradicating it from students lives. Instead, the school promotes a balanced approach, where technology is treated as a tool rather than a replacement for real-world experiences. Sunbeams has been shaped into a safe and friendly environment where, while keeping the pressing threats of overuse of technology in mind, human-to-human interactions are highly encouraged and nature-based experiences are promoted. Children rarely change habits on their own; they need guidance and inspiration. Sunbeams understands this and turns intentions into action. From planting trees in Green Drives to running, cheering, and competing on Sports Days, students connect with each other and the world around them in real, memorable ways. Cultural and national celebrations, debates, and dramatics let them laugh, learn, and discover who they are while feeling part of something bigger. It’s not about taking away gadgets—students naturally spend less time on screens because these hands-on, joyful experiences are simply too exciting to miss. Keeping in mind the importance of voluntary participation, Sunbeams offers various inclusive extracurricular activities, each tailored for children with different interests. Debates challenge students to think on their feet and share their ideas, dramatics bring excitement and creativity to the stage, science fairs let them explore and experiment, and art competitions allow them to show their imagination. Group projects and community initiatives help students work together, understand each other, and take on responsibilities, showing that engaging with the real world can be far more fun and rewarding than staring at screens. Through these activities, students develop focus, curiosity, and confidence naturally, without ever being told to put away their gadgets. Sunbeams realises the importance of technology in everyday life therefore a smooth transition from digital dependancy to real life experience is encouraged. By participating in such activities students gradually develop patience, attentiveness, and the ability to observe details carefully. These experiences encourage them to stay present, think critically, and appreciate the value of effort and persistence. They value and appreciate little moments enjoying activities fully rather than being distracted by screens. Their interactions with fellow classmates improve greatly,  fostering a healthy school environment. Experiences at school encourage children to share and interact with their families, improving connections at home In this digital age, depriving students of a resource so deeply integrated into their lives is not the solution. Instead, it is essential to create space around technology and help children learn to balance its use with real-life experiences. Sunbeams shows that children can thrive when they take part in engaging co-curricular activities that naturally draw them away from screens. Through debates, arts, sports, and community projects, students explore, learn, and have fun all at once. These experiences help them gain confidence, build connections, and grow emotionally. Sunbeams shapes students who are academically strong, socially aware, and grounded in values, ready to face both the digital world and real life with curiosity and purpose. It’s always exciting to hear the stories of peers and seniors, and as an intern, I get to join in too- guiding students, sharing experiences, and helping them build discipline, teamwork, and a love for learning, all while showing them that real-life activities can be far more fun than screen time. About Author Fizza Abbas is in A2, LGS Islamabad on full scholarship and is currently an intern at Sunbeams School System.

When I first joined the Sunbeams internship, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. It was my first time working with an NGO, and I came across it through a classmate who mentioned that one of their interns was delivering a free session on freelancing, with paid sessions being used to raise funds for students’ education. The idea fascinated me, so I applied, thinking it might just be routine online assignments. But as the days went by, I realized it was much more meaningful. Sunbeams is not just an NGO, it is a network of schools spread across twelve districts, dedicated to providing education, empowerment, and sustainability for communities. Since I live in Islamabad, I was able to visit a few schools in person. Seeing children learning in challenging circumstances made me more empathetic and deeply connected with the cause. Even when working remotely, I felt part of something that stretched far beyond my own city. One of the first things I learned was Sunbeams’ vision: that education is not limited to textbooks and exams, but about creating opportunities, building confidence, and shaping brighter futures. I admired how the organization not only provides schooling but also emphasizes women’s empowerment, environmental awareness, and inclusivity, accepting even those children who are past traditional school-going age through accelerated learning programs under the non-formal schools. To me, this represented true educational equity. This commitment to literacy is embodied in Sunbeams’ flagship initiative, PK 100 for 100, which envisions achieving 100% literacy by Pakistan’s centenary. What makes this initiative remarkable is its spirit of unity: instead of viewing others as competitors, the Chairperson, Ms. Ainee Nasir Jamy, says, “We only have partners, as we are all working on the same mission. We are always ready to collaborate to spread literacy.” That mindset of collective effort is exactly what I witnessed at Sunbeams, an ecosystem where education, empowerment, and inclusivity move hand in hand. My role was mainly in writing, research, and content creation. Initially, I wasn’t sure if these tasks would feel connected to the bigger picture. But every time I drafted content, highlighted challenges in Pakistan’s education system, or contributed to awareness campaigns, I could see how my work directly supported Sunbeams’ mission. Beyond these tasks, I also participated in running an awareness campaign. This campaign not only benefitted the organization, but more importantly, it reached out-of-school children and gave them new opportunities. I found myself naturally sharing information about Sunbeams with people in my daily life, including my house help, who became so interested in the program that she is now considering enrolling her own child in a Sunbeams school. That was when I realized how advocacy creates real impact. Another highlight was raising funds through selling eco-friendly, reusable bags made by women in Sunbeams’ vocational training centers. What seemed like a simple fundraising activity turned out to be much deeper: these women were building livelihoods for their families, and the proceeds from the bags funded children’s education. It was a powerful cycle of empowerment, where women’s skills sustained children’s futures. This internship also opened my eyes to the larger challenges in Pakistan’s education system: millions of children remain out of school, and those enrolled often lack resources or access to holistic learning. Sunbeams, however, integrates co-curricular activities and environmental awareness into its model, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Witnessing this approach was an eye-opener for me. On a personal level, the internship helped me grow in unexpected ways. My research and writing skills improved, but more importantly, I became more socially aware and motivated to play my part in creating change. It taught me that one doesn’t always need to be physically present to contribute meaningfully, commitment and sincerity matter most. Looking back, this experience was transformative. I joined with limited expectations, but left with a stronger sense of purpose. Sunbeams showed me that education changes lives, empowerment builds communities, and even small efforts can create ripples of hope. I may have started as an intern, but I will always remain a volunteer and supporter of Sunbeams’ mission. For anyone who wants to contribute to something larger than themselves, to learn, and to make a real difference, Sunbeams is the place to start. Omer Saghir is a Computer Science student at Bahria University with interests in web development and data science. He is currently an intern at Sunbeams School System, passionate about bringing social change through literacy and education.

A Pakistan where daughters are celebrated for their ambitions, where classrooms are filled with eager young girls, and where women play equal roles in shaping the nation’s future. This vision is not just a dream it is the essence of women empowerment, and it is exactly what schools like Sunbeams are working hard to achieve.  Women Empowerment Women empowerment means giving women the freedom, confidence, and opportunities to live their lives with dignity and equality. Its goal is to guarantee women the same access to healthcare, employment, education and decision-making opportunities as males. An empowered woman is not just strong for herself, she uplifts her family, her community, and her country. In a society like Pakistan, where many women still face barriers, empowerment becomes the key to progress and change. In Pakistan, almost half of the population is female, yet many women are still denied equal opportunities in education, jobs, and decision-making.  Women’s labor force participation is notably low, with figures around 23-25%, compared to the global average of around 52.6% and South Asia’s average of 25.2%. No country can progress by leaving half its people behind. Empowering women is not just about fairness it is about unlocking the full potential of our society. When women are educated and empowered, they strengthen families, support communities, and contribute to the economy. On the other hand, when opportunities are denied, poverty and inequality only grow deeper. This is why women empowerment is not optional for Pakistan it is a necessity for building a stronger and brighter future. One of the most effective means of empowering women is education. It provides women with the opportunity to improve their own and their family’s life by opening doors to knowledge, self-assurance, and independence. However, not everyone in Pakistan has equal access to education. While many girls in cities manage to complete school, thousands in rural areas are forced to drop out due to poverty, cultural barriers, or lack of access to schools. Currently, Pakistan has one of the lowest female literacy rates among all Asian states (25%), and it is only slightly higher than the global average (24%). Lack of access to education leads to low utilization of the labor force, unequal distribution of household tasks, limited social mobility, and unequal distribution of wealth. Women’s access to education, at all levels, is limited. Pakistan’s cultural fabric is deeply ingrained with patriarchal norms, where women have traditionally been relegated to the domestic sphere. Cultural practices like early marriage, honor killings, and restrictions on mobility continue to impede women’s empowerment efforts, despite growing awareness and advocacy. Women are more likely than men to live in poverty worldwide. Even when they are employed, many women are either unpaid, underpaid, or confined to part-time and low-status jobs. In politics, the situation is similar women rarely get the chance to participate fully, and when they do, their presence is often treated as symbolic rather than a step toward real equality. Despite making up 49% of the population, women in Pakistan remain underrepresented in the workforce. Additionally, women are less likely to own land, have limited legal support, and are often restricted to clerical or low-level positions because of deep-rooted gender biases. Cultural traditions and unfair systems continue to make it harder for women to achieve equal status in society, whether in the economy, politics, or the workplace. Why Education Matters Access to education is crucial for women’s empowerment, yet disparities persist, particularly in rural areas. Efforts to promote girls’ education include building schools, providing scholarships, and raising awareness about its importance. The Role of Sunbeams School In a country where thousands of children are still deprived of learning opportunities, Sunbeams School shines as a ray of hope. With 15,000+ students, 400+ dedicated teachers, and over 162schools across 12 districts of Pakistan, Sunbeams works relentlessly to provide cheap, high-quality education to children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn. Sunbeams have taken this mission to heart by providing education in areas where opportunities are limited. For many young girls, it is not just a school, it is a place of hope. In 2025 alone, Sunbeams further expanded its reach by opening new schools, and strengthening its Madrassah programs and vocational centers, ensuring that education and skill development go hand in hand. But Sunbeams doesn’t wait for children to come on their own. Teams actively go door-to-door,convincing parents of the importance of education and enrolling children for a better future. This direct effort has helped change mindsets in communities where poverty or traditional barriers once kept girls at home. One beautiful example comes from UC-49 Shah Allah Ditta, where the Sunbeams team along with the education minister visited the home of a 12-year-old girl, the last out-of-school child in that union council. With patience and encouragement, they convinced her family to send her to school. That very day, she walked with the team to her new classroom, filled with excitement and joy. Today, she proudly calls herself a Sunbeams student, her smile a living reminder of why this mission matters. Education at Sunbeams is a path of empowerment rather than only classroom instruction. For a lot of girls, entering Sunbeams is their first educational opportunity. Once inside they are encouraged to grow in confidence through debates, group activities, and creative expression. Slowly, the shy students who once hesitated to raise their hands begin to find their voices. They learn that their opinions matter, that they can speak up, and that their words can inspire others. Take the story of Parveen, who joined Sunbeams in prep class and is now in class 7. She says, “I want to become a professor one day. I want to go into teaching because I want to guide students the same way my teachers at Sunbeams have guided me. The best thing about Sunbeams is that our teachers teach us through activities, which makes learning fun and easy for us.” Her words show how Sunbeams is not just about books it is about shaping dreams and inspiring futures. Access is just the beginning of the adventure. Sunbeams ensures that students have a solid educational foundation by offering matriculation. In addition, the institution keeps in touch with its alumni, helps them make career decisions, and offers resources to support their pursuit of further education or professional paths. This long-term support becomes a stepping stone for independence and resilience in a world where women often face extra challenges. Take the story of Zainab Bibi, a proud Sunbeams graduate. She says, “I completed my matriculation from Sunbeams School, fulfilling my late father’s dream. He always wanted

Author

Stepping into the Sunbeams School in Kot Hatyal, there was a quiet energy in the air. Our team of Sunbeam interns had been looking forward to this field visit for weeks, but as we entered the school grounds, we were met with shy glances and hesitant smiles from the children. For a moment, it felt like we were strangers in their little world. But all of that was about to change, with something as simple as thread and creativity.We gathered the kids around and began a fun headband-making activity. At first, their tiny hands fumbled and their eyes stayed downcast. But as the colors began to come together,reds, pinks, yellows braided into soft patterns, a kind of magic unfolded. The children began to giggle, talk, and slowly let us into their world. I found myself sitting cross-legged on the ground, braiding headbands with them as the warm sunlight danced on their beaming faces. Laughter echoed through the courtyard, soft and sweet like music.One little girl tugged at my arm to help her fix her braid, and we ended up sharing the most wonderful laugh over how tangled it had gotten. These moments, so pure and full of light reminded me why we were here.But it was one conversation that stayed with me most. A slightly older girl, full of spark and determination, looked at us with bright eyes and shared something truly special. She told us she dreams of continuing her education, something she never thought possible until Sunbeams School came to Kot Hatyal. She was filled with joy that she could begin her primary education here and had full hope of attending senior school next. Her excitement was contagious, and even more heartwarming was the support from her mother, who proudly stood by her daughter’s dream of a brighter future.That day was more than a visit, it was a glimpse into lives being transformed. And in the golden sunlight, among headbands, stories, and smiles, I realized that hope doesn’t need big words or loud moments,it often comes quietly, braided between laughter and love. The author is an intern at Sunbeams School System and a student of Lahore Grammar School.

Introduction Government schools have the potential to educate millions — but many struggle with poor management, weak teaching standards, and lack of resources.Sunbeams steps in not to replace the system, but to strengthen it. Why Government Schools Need Support Common challenges include: These issues directly impact learning outcomes. Sunbeams’ School Adoption & Improvement Model Sunbeams has developed a proven framework to uplift government schools sustainably. ✔ 1. Teacher Training & Coaching Sunbeams trains government teachers in: Regular coaching ensures improvements last. ✔ 2. Upgrading Learning Environments Sunbeams improves: Even small upgrades drastically improve student motivation. ✔ 3. Attendance Strengthening Systems Sunbeams introduces systems to track: These systems increase accountability and transparency. ✔ 4. Parent & Community Engagement Sunbeams organizes meetings to help parents understand the value of education.When parents are involved, school performance improves. Impact: Stronger Schools, Better Futures Schools under Sunbeams’ model see: Conclusion Strengthening government schools creates long-term, scalable change.Sunbeams is turning underperforming schools into thriving learning spaces — proving that change is possible, sustainable, and impactful.