A recent government report has revealed that around 26 million children in Pakistan are still out of school. Among them are nearly 3.4 million girls, highlighting ongoing challenges in the country’s education sector.
The findings were shared in the Girls’ Education Statistics and Trends Report 2023 to 24, launched by Federal Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
The report shows that although efforts have been made at both federal and provincial levels, progress remains uneven. Education funding has declined in recent years, with its share in the national budget falling from 13 percent to 11 percent.
A large portion of education spending is used for salaries, leaving limited funds for development projects, school upgrades, and new initiatives.
There are some positive signs. The completion rate for girls at the primary school level increased from 75 percent to 89 percent. Infrastructure in many schools has improved, including better classrooms and basic facilities.
However, challenges such as poverty, malnutrition, and social barriers continue to prevent many children, especially girls, from attending school.
The report also points to low female participation in the labor force, showing that education alone is not enough without wider social and economic support. It calls for stronger policy reforms, better teacher training, and the use of digital tools to improve learning outcomes.
Long term commitment and increased investment are essential to ensure every child in Pakistan has access to quality education.
