DIL has been able to have a major impact in running and operating the schools. Certain key aspects of the operations have led to the tremendous success DIL has had over the last decade.
Focus on the Female Education: Female students consist of 60% of DIL’s student population. This is a great feat since the official national literacy rate for women in Pakistan stands at only 38% (the unofficial figure is expected to be significantly lower).
Community-Owned Schools: DIL schools are community-owned and have a village education committee that provides support to teachers and ensures the community’s involvement.
US-Based Governance: DIL operates under the governance of a US-based Executive Board that establishes organizational policies, develops strategic goals and initiatives and monitors projects to determine whether DIL’s educational and administrative standards are being met.
Addressing the Needs of Rural Teachers and Students: DIL’s Teacher Development Center is working closely with rural teachers to not only improve their teaching skills, but also to utilize their feedback in developing lesson plans and teaching materials that meet the needs of the rural population.
Activity-Based Learning: In this inquiry-based approach, students develop knowledge and understanding through learning activities built upon intellectual inquiry and engagement in meaningful tasks. Lessons are designed to allow students with different learning styles the opportunity to demonstrate their acquired knowledge.
Low Dropout Rate: The average student dropout rate for DIL schools in 2007 was only 2.5%, which is an enormous achievement considering the nationwide dropout rate in Pakistan is 45.0%.