KARACHI:
Pakistan continues to grapple with the persistent challenge of child labour, a scourge that affects millions of young lives. According to a report by ILO, approximately 3.3 million children in Pakistan are trapped in child labour, with 13.7% of them aged between 10 and 17 years. These alarming statistics highlight the grim reality deeply rooted in our society. Several factors contribute to this issue, including poverty, inflation, illiteracy and a lack of quality education. With an estimated 26 million out-of-school children, it is imperative for Pakistan to reassess its educational policies and address the underlying flaws that perpetuate this crisis.
Despite the urgency of the situation, tangible actions to combat child labour remain scarce. A few months ago, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the severity of the issue and pledged to tackle it with determination. However, we have yet to see any concrete measures taken. Education is a fundamental human right, yet millions of Pakistani children are deprived of it. The relevant authorities must act swiftly to ensure that our children, who are the leaders of tomorrow, receive the education and opportunities they deserve.
Waseem Murad
Sohbatpur
