TED: To learn is to be free | Shameem Akhtar

Shameem, a girl from a conservative Baloch tribe, was raised as a boy to access education. Despite societal and familial challenges, she pursued her studies, eventually becoming a teacher and community leader. Her journey highlights the importance of education for girls and the impact of empowerment on societal change.

What was the main reason Shameem was raised as a boy?

• Her uncle wanted her to have educational opportunities.

• Her parents wanted a boy.

• There were no girls' schools in her village.

• She had a name that could be used for both genders.

What challenge did Shameem face after completing her eighth-grade year?

• She was not allowed to study with boys anymore.

• The high school was too far away.

• Her father refused to let her continue her education.

• Her family needed her to work at home.

How did Shameem manage to attend college?

• Her uncle paid for her education.

• Her father agreed to support her.

• She went on a hunger strike.

• She received a scholarship.

What was Shameem's first job after completing her education?

• Teacher

• Lady health visitor

• Employee at Thardeep Rural Development Program

• Police officer

What impact did Shameem's employment have on her village?

• It led to the construction of a new school.

• It caused her family to move to a city.

• It resulted in her becoming a village leader.

• It inspired other parents to send their daughters to school.

What realization did Shameem have while working at TRDP?

• She needed to return home to help her family.

• Her education was complete and she needed no further learning.

• The issues faced by women in Pakistan were more severe than she thought.

• Her village was the only one facing educational challenges.

What role did Shameem take on after joining the Acumen Fellowship?

• She started a new business.

• She moved to a different country.

• She became a health worker.

• She became a teacher in a remote school.

What was Shameem's main goal as a teacher?

• To inspire young girls and introduce them to the outside world.

• To move to a city school.

• To teach only boys.

• To earn a higher salary.

What is Shameem currently working towards in her educational journey?

• A master's degree in education.

• A certificate in leadership.

• A PhD in education.

• A diploma in teaching.

According to Shameem, what is essential for achieving world peace?

• Improving healthcare.

• Educating girls.

• Reducing poverty.

• Building more schools.