Education in peril

As Pakistan grapples with the unsettling distinction of topping the worldwide list of out-of-school children, with an estimated 22.8 million children aged 5 to 16 out of school, urgent action is needed to address this pressing education crisis. The alarming number of children denied access to education not only jeopardises their individual futures but also poses a significant threat to the nation’s overall development.

Education is the bedrock of any nation’s progress. It empowers individuals with knowledge and skills, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy. By failing to provide access to education for a large segment of its children, Pakistan risks squandering its potential for growth and innovation. The consequences of this crisis extend far beyond immediate concerns and will have long-term implications for the nation’s socio-economic stability. Addressing the out-of-school children crisis requires a multi-faceted approach involving all stakeholders. However, the government must take the lead in implementing policies and programmes that incentivise enrolment and provide financial support to families facing economic hardships. Scholarships, subsidies and initiatives to improve access to schools in remote areas are essential steps toward encouraging parents to send their children to school. Moreover, teachers and parents play a pivotal role in shaping a child’s educational journey. Recognising that the home is a child’s first school and providing a nurturing environment in schools will indeed go a long way in helping the children of this nation thrive academically and emotionally.

Pakistan’s education crisis demands immediate attention. The government must take bold and decisive action, ensuring that no child is left behind. Eventually, we all must try and build a future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to a more prosperous Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 24^th, 2023.

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