ISLAMABAD, October 23, 2026: The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (MoFEPT), in collaboration with the National Heritage and Culture Division, has launched the Heritage Education Initiative in schools under the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) to introduce students to Pakistan’s cultural traditions through practical learning and creative activities.
The programme will initially be introduced in 10 federal public schools, targeting students of Classes VI to VIII. Each participating school will establish a Heritage Club comprising 20 to 30 students, providing opportunities to explore traditional craftsmanship, artistic expression and the country’s cultural history.
The six-month pilot programme aims to strengthen students’ understanding of Pakistan’s cultural identity while developing creativity, critical thinking and appreciation for traditional skills.
Students to explore six traditional and modern art forms
The initiative will focus on six areas of craftsmanship and artistic expression: truck art, patchwork, jewellery making, clay pottery, rabab and digital art.
Students will participate in hands-on activities, observation, research and creative projects designed to help them understand the cultural significance of these traditions and their relevance in contemporary society.
According to the ministry, the programme will complement the existing curriculum without introducing additional subjects, examinations or graded assignments.
Instead of relying on conventional classroom instruction, students will be encouraged to investigate cultural practices, experiment with artistic techniques and develop their own interpretations of Pakistan’s heritage.
Six-month pilot to conclude with student exhibition
The programme will follow four learning stages: discovery, experience, creation and showcase.
At the conclusion of the six-month pilot, participating students will organise an exhibition to present their artwork, demonstrate acquired skills and share their understanding of Pakistan’s cultural traditions with the wider community.
The ministry said the initiative would be implemented through a phased roadmap. The first phase will establish the pilot programme and assess its feasibility, followed by consolidation and expansion in the second phase.
The third phase will focus on integrating heritage education into the federal education system on a sustainable basis.
Heritage Clubs to strengthen cultural awareness
Through the Heritage Clubs, students will be introduced to both tangible and intangible aspects of Pakistan’s cultural heritage, including traditional artistic practices and the knowledge associated with local craftsmanship.
The initiative also seeks to encourage connections between younger generations and traditional artisans by helping students recognise the value of skills and cultural practices passed down through generations.
The ministry said the programme was intended to promote holistic education by encouraging students to question, observe and explore cultural traditions rather than simply memorise historical information.
The collaboration between MoFEPT and the National Heritage and Culture Division is also expected to support broader efforts to preserve traditional knowledge while incorporating cultural awareness into educational development.
Officials expect the pilot phase to generate insights into student participation, programme implementation and learning outcomes, which will help guide its possible expansion to additional federal educational institutions.
The ministry said the initiative reflected its commitment to developing students who appreciate Pakistan’s cultural diversity and understand the importance of preserving the country’s heritage for future generations.