Out-of-school children
Article 25-A of the Constitution of Pakistan states, “The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law.” This plain and simple means that it is the responsibility of the state to ensure that the children of Pakistan are educated in the best possible manner. Unfortunately, they have disgracefully failed at this as Pakistan continues to have of the highest rates of out-of-school-children.
The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2021 has revealed that around 19% of children across the country remained out of school with most coming from underprivileged backgrounds. Those that are studying in government schools don’t seem to have a bright prospect either, as the HEC Chairman has himself said, “Our education system can produce neither good students nor good citizens.” It is also worth noting that a massive 81% of children are enrolled in government schools while only a few privileged 19% are studying in private schools. This situation has been created by years of mismanagement, negligence and corruption on the part of the various education boards operating in the country. But this isn’t the only factor. The rich-poor divide has been exacerbated with private schools charging exorbitant tuition fee for quality education which only a small percentage can afford. Moreover, the socio-economic conditions of Pakistan have deteriorated drastically and with inflation on the rise, parents prefer that their children work and earn rather than “waste time” on a “useless” education. Rampant drug abuse has also forced many children to leave school. Yet officials and society in general seem least bothered about the long-term consequences this will have on Pakistan.
As a solution, there must be greater accountability in the education sector and emphasis on revamping and restructuring the school system, especially in rural areas. This requires money, patience and serious collaborative efforts by government officials and civil society organisations. The children of Pakistan deserve much better.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 14th, 2022.
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