KARACHI:
Federal Education Policy 2026 has been release recently by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training in collaboration with UNESCO and UNICEF. I want to express both appreciation for this comprehensive framework and urgent concern regarding its execution on the ground.
Pakistan currently faces an overwhelming education emergency, with an estimated 25 to 15 million out-of-school children. The new policy framework sets vital priorities to combat this crisis, including standardised Non-Formal Education Management Information Systems (NFEMIS) and Accelerated Learning Programmed (ALPs). Furthermore, introducing Early Grade Assessment frameworks for Foundational Literacy & Numeracy (FLN) alongside systemic accessibility standards for special needs and marginalised students addresses critical, longstanding structural gaps.
While this policy provides a clear and promising roadmap, its ultimate success depends entirely on rigorous implementation, transparent data tracking, sustained financing and strong inter-provincial coordination. I wish to remind authorities and the public that policy frameworks on paper are not enough. There is a need to ensure dedicated political will and resource allocation so that no child is left behind.
Zuhair Ali Shah
Karachi
