Our Story

ABOUT US

Who We Are

The Institute of Montessori Education for Teachers (IMET) is Pakistan’s only Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)-recognized training center, offering internationally accredited Montessori Diploma and Certificate Courses. Our programs are designed to uphold the authentic Montessori method, ensuring the highest standards of teacher training. IMET also operates the Montessori Children’s Centre in Karachi.

Our Mission

At the Institute of Montessori Education for Teachers (IMET), our mission is to empower educators with authentic Montessori training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to nurture independent, confident, and lifelong learners. We are committed to upholding the principles of the Montessori method, fostering a child-centered approach that encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Through our internationally recognized training programs, we aim to inspire teachers to create meaningful learning experiences that shape the future of education.

WHAT IS AMI?

The Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) is committed to fostering the natural development of individuals from birth to adulthood, empowering children to become transformative leaders who contribute to a more harmonious and peaceful world.

Recognized globally as an authority on childhood development, human growth, and children’s rights, AMI is a trusted resource for expertise in these areas. As the steward and global advocate of Montessori philosophy and pedagogy, AMI ensures the integrity and advancement of authentic Montessori education worldwide.

Additionally, AMI collaborates with international and national humanitarian organizations, as well as government bodies, to address social and educational challenges—driving meaningful change through the power of education.

OUR JOURNEY

We are among approximately 90 Montessori training centers worldwide and the only one in Pakistan offering Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) Diploma and Certificate Courses. These internationally recognized programs provide qualifications rooted in the authentic Montessori approach.

Founded by Dr. Maria Montessori, AMI continues to uphold the integrity of her work and is globally recognized. All our lectures, tutorials, written assignments, and course materials are directly authorized by AMI, ensuring the highest standards of Montessori education.

Our courses are taught by highly qualified AMI trainers who have completed the AMI Training of Trainers program and have extensive experience working with children. We take pride in our commitment to academic excellence and professional development.

In addition to teacher training, the Institute of Montessori Education for Teachers (IMET) operates the Montessori Children’s Centre in Karachi, an exemplary school where children aged 2.5 to 6 years experience Montessori education guided by AMI-trained teachers. Our ongoing mentorship and professional development programs ensure that educators continuously refine their practice, upholding the highest standards of Montessori authenticity.

IMET’s Evolution in Montessori Training

From 1999 to 2019, Montessori training courses were conducted by MTTC (now IMET) under the leadership of Mrs. Farida Akbar as Director of Training.

In 2018, MTTC (now IMET) proudly celebrated its 50th training course.

From 2019 to 2023, Mrs. Salma Imtiaz took over as Director of Training, continuing the institute’s legacy of excellence.

This year, IMET successfully completed its 55th course, the legacy is being carried forward by Ms. Tayyaba Saleem.

We believe the AMI approach to Montessori education is the gold standard for early child development, with the ability to bring positive change to society as a whole. As such, there is a need for teachers who are passionate and properly trained in the principles and practices of the AMI. We make this happen by:

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OUR HISTORY

BEFORE PARTITION

When Dr. Maria Montessori first visited the Indian Subcontinent in 1939, she was compelled to remain for seven years due to World War II. During this period, before Partition, the foundations of Montessori education were laid in what is now Pakistan.

Dr. Montessori conducted numerous teacher training courses across the region, with her final course held in Karachi in 1946. The pioneer of the Montessori Movement in Pakistan, Mrs. Gool K. Minwalla, was among the 345 students of Dr. Montessori’s first teacher training course in Kalakshetra, Adyar, in 1939.

In 1941, Mrs. Minwalla established the first Montessori House of Children in Karachi, which gained recognition from AMI. She was instrumental in inviting Dr. Montessori to Pakistan post-independence, further strengthening the Montessori legacy in the newly formed nation.

AFTER PARTITION

Following Pakistan’s independence, the Pakistan Montessori Association was established to further Montessori education in the country. In 1949, Dr. Maria Montessori inaugurated Pakistan’s first Montessori Teachers Training Course, which was conducted in Karachi by Mr. Joosten.

The second teacher training course was launched in 1966 by Mario Montessori Sr. Since then, Montessori training courses have been held annually, with Mrs. Gool K. Minwalla serving as the Director of Training. She was supported by distinguished educators, including Mrs. Gul Rustamji, Mrs. Majida Sufi, Mrs. Arnawaz Dinshaw, Mrs. Arifa Saifee, Mrs. Farida Akbar, and Mrs. Anisa Moin.

In 1999, at the request of AMI, a new organization was established to oversee AMI training courses in Pakistan. The Institute of Montessori Education for Teachers (IMET) (Guarantee) Ltd.—formerly MTTC—was officially registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). It operates under the provisions of the Companies Act of 2017 (XIX of 2017) and is governed by a Board of Directors.

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