KARACHI:
The issue of ghost teachers is one of the most disheartening challenges plaguing Balochistan's already fragile education system. According to a report from the Education Department of Balochistan, out of 59,000 registered primary, middle and high school teachers, a staggering 15,000 were found to be ghost teachers.
These individuals are drawing salaries without attending their assigned schools or fulfilling their duties. The cost of this malpractice is enormous, with these ghost teachers eating up Rs 400-500 million annually from the province's already limited education budget. As a result of the report, the salaries of these absentee teachers were immediately suspended. However, this incident sheds light on the systemic issues in Balochistan's educational infrastructure. It is not only a loss of public funds but also a loss of potential for thousands of students deprived of quality education.
Ghost teachers undermine the very foundation of the education system, contributing to poor literacy rates and limited opportunities for the youth of Balochistan. Immediate reforms, including stronger oversight and accountability, are essential to prevent further damage and ensure that the province’s children receive the education they deserve.
Rahim Dad
Turbat
