Protesting teachers

Teachers protest privatisation and job security issues, calling for reforms to address Pakistan’s education crisis.

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The cracks in our education system have become glaringly evident. The ongoing protests by teachers in Punjab and K-P reflect a deepening crisis in the education sector. Government school teachers, under the Grand Teachers Alliance, have completely shut down public schools in six districts of Rawalpindi, in response to government plans that they perceive as threats to their jobs and the public education system. The core issue revolves around the privatisation of government schools, teachers' layoffs and a lack of job security - problems that are eroding the trust and morale of educators.

The government's approach of issuing dismissals, suspensions and show-cause notices only escalates tensions. Punitive measures against educators, rather than constructive engagement, reflect a short-sighted response that further alienates those entrusted with shaping the nation's future. For years, Pakistan's education system has struggled with inadequate resources and uneven quality. While privatisation may appear as an expedient solution, the primary focus should remain on improving educational standards, recently assessed as alarmingly low. It is essential for the government to recognise teachers as key stakeholders in this effort. Teachers deserve to be treated as collaborative partners, not adversaries. Their calls for fair working conditions are not only justified but critical for building an effective educational system. Positioned at the forefront of the learning environment, teachers possess valuable insights into classroom needs that should guide policy decisions.

Ultimately, meaningful reform must prioritise quality and equity in education for all. By working with educators rather than against them, the government can begin to address systemic issues eroding the very foundation of our education system. Ensuring access to high-quality education for every child is a commitment that requires long-term planning and sufficient funding, and the government must plan accordingly.