Dubai: Naila Kiani, a Pakistani mountaineer residing in Dubai, has a new summit to conquer – but this time, it's not a mountain peak. Kiani, known for being the only Pakistani to scale over seven mountains exceeding 8,000 meters in a record-breaking six months in 2023, has been appointed Pakistan's National Goodwill Ambassador for Girls' Education by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training.
A journey shaped by perseverance
Kiani's path to education was far from easy. She faced significant hurdles in accessing quality education while growing up. To afford her university fees, she even had to work full-time at night after attending classes. Despite these challenges, Kiani excelled academically, becoming a successful aerospace engineer and banker.
Education: The key to empowerment
Kiani's personal experiences instilled in her a strong belief in the power of education, particularly for girls. Early education, she argues, is the foundation for empowering girls to make significant contributions to their families, communities, and the entire nation.
A new mission: Championing girls' education
As Pakistan's National Goodwill Ambassador for Girls' Education, Kiani will focus on several key areas:
- Highlighting the importance of early education: Kiani will advocate for the crucial role early education plays in ensuring girls have lasting opportunities and the power to shape their futures.
- Supporting government initiatives: She will actively promote and endorse government programs, both federal and provincial, that aim to improve access to quality education for girls across Pakistan.
- Motivating young girls: As a role model she will act as a source of inspiration for young girls nationwide. Her goal is to motivate them to pursue their full potential through the power of education.
Naila Kiani's appointment as Pakistan's National Goodwill Ambassador for Girls' Education is a testament to her unwavering spirit and her dedication to empowering the next generation of girls.
Her own story of overcoming challenges serves as a powerful message, urging girls to embrace education and reach for their dreams.