THE Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE), under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, recently launched the Pakistan Education Statistics 2022-23. This report is a valuable resource for stakeholders, from policymakers to practitioners, supporting evidence-based decision-making and operational planning. The report divides data into two major areas: Access to Education & Participation and Learning Environment: Infrastructure and Facilities, while also briefly addressing public financing in education and presenting South Asia regional comparisons.
The report indicates that 68% of children aged 5-16 are enrolled in school, with 60% in public schools and 40% in private ones. From a positive perspective, the glass is half full—private schools contribute to expanding access, while the public sector already serves 36% of children, showing potential for growth. This reflects a growing demand for education and collaboration between public and private sectors could further improve participation.
However, the glass is also half empty: 38% of children are still out of school, highlighting significant gaps in access. This exclusion perpetuates cycles of poverty, inequality and social exclusion. The public sector’s limited capacity, serving only 36%, indicates issues with resource allocation, infrastructure and governance. Moreover, private schools, with their hefty fees, marginalize disadvantaged groups, exacerbating socioeconomic disparities. The state’s failure to provide free and compulsory quality education, as required by Pakistan’s constitution, remains a major concern.
The report stresses the importance of well-designed classrooms, basic facilities and proper sanitation for enhancing learning quality. It notes that 76% of public schools provide clean drinking water, 78% have toilets and 67% offer electricity. Additionally, 79% of schools have boundary walls, ensuring security. These improvements contribute to a better learning environment despite financial constraints.
However, from the glass half empty viewpoint, there are significant infrastructure shortages: 24% of schools lack safe drinking water, 22% don’t have toilets, 33% are without electricity and 21% lack boundary walls, compromising health, safety and educational quality. These deficiencies not only threaten students’ well-being but also erode the quality of education and contribute to inequities.
The absence of basic amenities like water, sanitation and electricity can cause emotional and psychological distress for students, impacting their academic performance and overall development. This deprivation may lead to feelings of humiliation, low self-esteem and anxiety, ultimately hindering social, emotional and cognitive growth. The future of education in Pakistan depends on a multi-faceted approach. The government must prioritize education by improving school governance, resource allocation and capacity in the public sector. Incentives like scholarships and free meal programs could boost enrollment and retention. Community initiatives, such as volunteerism and corporate social responsibility, can also help improve resources and infrastructure.
At the policy level, focusing on affordability, inclusivity and equity is crucial. Reforms should target marginalized groups and incorporate technology in education. To unlock the potential of Pakistan’s youth, foster inclusion and ensure social cohesion, addressing these challenges through comprehensive measures is imperative.
Pakistan Education Statistics 2022-23 highlights both progress in school access and critical gaps in infrastructure, urging a collaborative, inclusive approach to address educational inequities and unlock the potential of Pakistan’s youth.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
