Philosophy

The basic philosophy of Solas is that education is the instrument through which inhibiting constraints, such as prejudice, want of vision and lack of inquiring spirit, that frustrate the potential latent in individuals and society, may be relaxed. While we appreciate that the problems experienced by countries like Pakistan are complex, interrelated and organic in character, and that an integrated approach to them is needed, the Trust nevertheless believes that action by individuals and small groups in specific and focused ways can be of value.

The intention of the Trust is therefore to support educational activity, likely to be of a small-scale nature, that encourages a spirit of inquiry and promotes a critical and humane outlook on life. To promote its objectives, Solas may engage in activities such as supporting existing institutions that are facing financial constraints or new initiatives in education on the part of local communities that lack adequate resources. In any project with which it was associated, Solas would hope to play a more involved part than that of being merely provider of funds. Solas will prefer to promote projects in which the local communities are actively involved. We interpret the term ‘education’ broadly; it includes ‘informal’ education, that is education that does not necessarily lead to formal qualifications, adult education, in particular of women, and instruction that is focused on problems relating to health and hygiene.