Educational disparities

Economic constraints, inadequate infrastructure and limited resources exacerbate the cycles of poverty and exclusion

In Pakistan, the quest for equal opportunities in education remains an ongoing struggle, emblematic of the broader challenges facing the nation’s socio-economic development. While the Constitution enshrines the right to education for all children, the reality on the ground paints a starkly different picture. Across the country, disparities persist, depriving countless children of their fundamental right to learn and thrive.

Central to this issue is the urgent need to implement Article 25 of the Constitution, which mandates equal access to education for every child. This constitutional provision is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative, reflecting Pakistan’s commitment to equity, social justice and inclusive development. However, despite the passage of thirteen years since the introduction of Article 25-A, progress in realising this right has been painfully slow. One of the most pressing concerns is the persistent gender gap in educational attainment, with girls disproportionately affected by barriers to access. In regions like Balochistan, Sindh, and K-P, cultural norms and socio-economic factors continue to hinder girls’ enrollment and retention in schools. Addressing this gender disparity requires targeted interventions aimed at dismantling entrenched barriers and promoting gender-sensitive policies that empower girls to pursue their education without fear or discrimination.

Moreover, children from the poorest households and those with disabilities also face significant challenges in accessing quality education. Economic constraints, inadequate infrastructure and limited resources further exacerbate the situation, perpetuating cycles of poverty and exclusion. Bridging these gaps requires holistic approaches that address the multifaceted barriers faced by marginalised communities, ensuring that no child is left behind.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, March 11^th, 2024.

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