No nation can rightfully claim to be sovereign and independent unless its population is educated and literate. An educated populace not only comprehends national goals but actively contributes to the building of the nation. Article 25-A of the Constitution of Pakistan, which guarantees free and compulsory education for all children aged five to sixteen, underscores this fundamental responsibility of the state. Regrettably, Pakistan has faltered in fulfilling this promise, leading to one of the highest rates of out-of-school children in the world.
According to a 2022 UNICEF report, approximately 23 million children in Pakistan remain deprived of education. When compared to neighboring countries, the situation appears dire. Over the past 15 years, Pakistan’s adult literacy rate has crept up from 54 percent to just 58 percent, while Bangladesh has surged from 50 percent to an impressive 78 percent.
The Economic Survey of 2022-23 has brought to light the staggering statistics – 32 percent of children are out of school in Pakistan, with a particularly alarming 47 percent in Balochistan, followed by 44 percent in Sindh, 32 percent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 24 percent in Punjab. Pakistan, with its over 23 million out-of-school children, holds the dubious distinction of having the highest number of such children globally. However, it’s not just the quantity but also the quality of education that plagues the nation. On International Literacy Day, despite numerous programs, seminars and awareness sessions held across the country, Pakistan still lags behind in achieving an acceptable literacy rate. The issue is compounded by factors like overpopulation and poverty, which contribute to low literacy rates.
The allocation of funds for the education sector is woefully inadequate, with Pakistan being one of only 12 countries worldwide that spend less than two percent of its GDP on education. This lack of financial commitment hinders the establishment of sufficient government schools, further reducing the chances for children to access education. However, one of the most significant barriers to improving the literacy rate lies with parents. Many fail to prioritize their children’s aptitudes, desires, interests, and future goals when it comes to education. This apathy perpetuates a cycle of illiteracy and ignorance that hampers the nation’s growth.
To truly claim sovereignty and independence, Pakistan must prioritize education at all levels. This means not only increasing the budget allocation for education but also addressing cultural and societal attitudes towards learning. An educated population is not just an asset; it is the cornerstone of progress, development, and the realization of national goals. Pakistan must heed this call and take swift action to educate its future generations, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for all.
