The Pakistan Bible Society (PBS) has been running a transformative literacy program aimed at non-literate women in Pakistan, where the literacy rate for women remains significantly low. This disparity is largely due to the societal structures that supress women’s rights and access to education. In December 2024, 3,819 students graduated from the literacy program, surpassing the target of 3,500. Additionally, PBS distributed 30,000 Scripture materials, including:
This Bible-based literacy program not only equips women to develop essential literacy skills but also fosters personal and spiritual growth. Sana*, a participant, who outside of the literacy program could not afford an education reflects on her experience: “We are thankful to the Lord that our teacher guided us very well and now we can read the Bible and also some other books”.
The program has also helped boost their personal development, Nida* shares, “I feel that I have developed self-confidence and now I can speak boldly with other people.”
For many, the program’s most profound impact has been spiritual growth, as it offers a deeper understanding of the Bible. Amina*, a dedicated teacher with 6 years of experience, explains the challenge she faces in convincing the women of the importance of education. However, Amina* shares, “I am thankful to the Lord that I am leading the 16 students, who are very regular and hardworking…I hope that these ladies will be able to read the Bible and will develop the Bible study groups.”
In addition to the literacy program, PBS organised medical eye camps in April 2024 to support the health of the women’s eyesight. These camps served 1,550 women, providing vision check-ups and distributing 550 pairs of glasses. Ayesha* a literacy program participant shares her experience: “After checking my eyesight, the doctor recommended using the vision glasses they gave me… Before using the glasses, I had a continuous headache, and now I am good. Moreover, I am also very comfortable recognising the words, which helps me learn easily.”
Both the literacy program and the medical camps have profoundly impacted the lives of the many women in Pakistan. Ayesha* sums it up saying: “I am thankful to the Lord and the Pakistan Bible Society for providing us such an opportunity to learn to read and write which will help to boost our status in society.”
Let us pray for work of the Bible Society in Pakistan and praise God that so many women benefitted from the literacy program run by PBS. Pray that the women may be a beacon of light to their families and communities as they continue to develop and use their newfound skills and confidence. To learn more about Bible Society’s work in Pakistan, visit: Pakistan: Light through Literacy
*Names changed to protect privacy.
Trigger Warning: This post contains descriptions of domestic violence. Please read with care. For Halls…
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