Secretary for primary schools

The creation of a new post of government, known as the secretary primary education, is a laudable move, even though we are quite accustomed to sitting governments establishing new positions extemporaneously without definitive responsibilities assigned. The move, however, could be indicative of a renewed will by the government to revamp Sindh’s education system. Hence, the introduction of this new post will be fully appreciated when the provincial leadership actually executes its plans to improve the educational outlook for children in Sindh. The requirement for a national education policy was necessitated since the birth of this nation. While it is encouraging that the NEP 2017 continues to be revised, it is of more practical significance that the plans included in the policy are actually carried out.

Article 25A of the Constitution of Pakistan, which mandates free and compulsory education for all children between five and 16, has become somewhat of a cliché. Tossing around references to the article was hyperbolic and lofty while simultaneously, nothing is being done to increase numbers for school enrolment at the government level. Furthermore, nothing was being done to ameliorate the lack of providing decent education to children, particularly in the way of delivering quality material and textbooks. The role of a primary education secretary could be monumental in this regard. Since children begin forming mental maps and understandings of the world beginning in the toddler stage and continue to build upon theories and ideas in their primary schooling, it is critical that their first introductions to various topics in school textbooks reflect truthful accounts and information, where the role of a secretary could be pivotal.

Education in Sindh has a long way to go but would benefit the development of the country tremendously once more children are provided with quality education. The role of a primary school secretary in the education and literacy department could facilitate this effort so long as the creation of the new post is done with honesty.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 9^th, 2017.

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