March 30, 2026 — The NGO World Foundation has signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Türkiye Diyanet Vakfı (TDV) for the construction of a permanent building for the ZEST Model High School at Ilyas Goth, Karachi. This milestone marks a transition from short-term interventions to a long-term, sustainable initiative aimed at transforming the lives of underprivileged children.
The MoU was formally signed at the head office of The NGO World by Mr. Zafar Iqbal, Chairman of The NGO World Foundation, and Dr. Abdurrahman Akkuş, Counselor for Religious Affairs at the Embassy of Türkiye in Islamabad. The ceremony highlighted the enduring partnership between the two organizations and their shared commitment to education and social development.
On the occasion, Mr. Zafar Iqbal reaffirmed his strong commitment to expanding access to quality education and ensuring long-term, sustainable impact for underprivileged communities.
Since 2016, The NGO World Foundation, in partnership with Türkiye Diyanet Vakfı and other stakeholders, has been implementing the ZEST Education Project across Karachi’s slums. Through both non-formal and formal education programs, the initiative has positively impacted approximately 15,000 out-of-school children by providing free education and essential support.
The establishment of this permanent institution reflects a shared commitment to educational empowerment and long-lasting social change.
