Education emergency

It is essential for policymakers to adopt holistic approach to education reform that addresses multifaceted challenges

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent announcement to declare an education emergency in Pakistan marks a significant step towards addressing the longstanding issue of educational inequity in the country. With a focus on providing quality education to children from underprivileged backgrounds, the Prime Minister’s initiative highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the education sector.

Pakistan’s education sector faces serious challenges, including a high rate of out-of-school children, inadequate infrastructure, and disparities in access to quality education between urban and rural areas. Despite efforts to improve enrollment rates and expand educational opportunities, millions of children continue to be deprived of their right to education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. The commitment to replicating the successful model of Daanish Schools, which provide free education to deserving children, is a commendable effort to bridge the gap in educational access. By extending these schools to underserved regions such as AJK, G-B, and remote areas of Balochistan and Sindh, the government can foster a more inclusive and equitable society. However, while initiatives like Daanish Schools are a step in the right direction, more comprehensive reforms are needed to address the root causes of educational inequity in Pakistan. This includes improving teacher training and retention, enhancing school infrastructure, and implementing policies to ensure equal access to education for marginalised communities. Efforts should be made to prioritise education in government spending and allocate sufficient resources to improve the quality and accessibility of schooling.

Moving forward, it is essential for policymakers to adopt a holistic approach to education reform that addresses the multifaceted challenges facing the sector. This requires innovative solutions and evidence-based policies that prioritise the needs of the most marginalised populations.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 14^th, 2024.

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