KARACHI:
Balochistan, a region blessed with rich culture and history, faces a significant challenge — illiteracy. A staggering 59% of the population grapples with the absence of educational opportunities. In a province with over 12,500 primary schools, the harsh reality is that 7,000 lack the basics—classrooms, teachers, and proper infrastructure. Shockingly, 2.3 million children remain out of school perpetuating a cycle of ignorance.
Poverty has amplified the issue, with 52% of people unable to afford to send their children to school. The problem is further compounded by ghost teachers, with over 5,000 receiving wages without fulfilling their duties. The plight of female education is particularly grim, as societal constraints restrict them from seeking knowledge outside their hometowns, resulting in a meagre 27% literacy rate. The consequences of illiteracy echo through every aspect of life in Balochistan. The inability to read and write not only hampers daily life but also obstructs economic progress. Job opportunities slip away and participation in the broader world remains a distant dream. Social interactions suffer, breeding rudeness and ignorance.
The remedy lies in decisive action. The government must prioritise education ensuring adequate resources and facilities reach every corner of Balochistan. Simultaneously, communities should champion women’s education breaking barriers that hinder progress. Only through collective efforts can Balochistan pave the way to a brighter, more informed future. Uplifting and empowering individuals in the province will also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the country.
Qambar Baloch
Hub
Published in The Express Tribune, December 12th, 2023.
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