KARACHI:
Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan with an abundance of several resources. However, it is also the least facilitated province of the country. Amongst the four provinces, Balochistan has the lowest literacy rate. Although there are many schools in different parts of the province, the quality of education is substandard, and most schools are not entirely functional. The negligent authorities have failed to ensure the smooth functioning of institutes and pocketed the budget allocated instead of investing it.
Fresh graduates and many others remain unemployed due to a lack of opportunities and favouritism amongst employers. Many have travelled to other provinces, and some have moved abroad in search of employment. However, not everyone can afford to relocate. The situation has become extremely dire and the youth of Balochistan is losing all hope. Within the last three years, the rate of suicide, drug abuse, and criminal activity has increased at an alarming rate.
To tackle the problem effectively, the provincial and federal governments should focus on reforming the education system. There are very few higher education institutes in the province because there is a general unawareness of the importance of education. Once the education system is improved, it will directly improve the quality of the labour force and attract local businesses to expand operations in Balochistan. The youth of Balochistan should not be neglected and must be provided with the opportunity to achieve progress as it will ultimately help the country.
Parvez Moula
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 8th, 2022.
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