In Pakistan, education is often seen as the key to a better future. However, for millions of parents, securing quality education for their children is a daunting and often heartbreaking challenge. From navigating the divide between private and public schools to dealing with financial constraints and systemic inefficiencies, parents are caught in a maze with no clear way out. This article explores the struggles of Pakistani parents as they try to provide their children with the education they deserve, highlighting real-life stories, systemic issues, and the long-term implications for the country. 1. The Dream of Education: A Parent’s Hope For Pakistani parents, education is more than just a means to acquire knowledge—it is a pathway out of poverty and a chance for a better life. Many parents, especially those from low-income backgrounds, see education as the only way to break the cycle of poverty and give their children opportunities they never had. A Father’s Struggle in Rural Punjab Take the story of Rashid Ahmed, a daily wage laborer from a small village in Punjab. Rashid dreams of sending his two children to school, but the nearest government school is 5 kilometers away, and he cannot afford the transportation costs. The local public school lacks basic facilities, and the teachers are often absent. Rashid is torn between sending his children to a substandard school or keeping them at home to help with household chores. A Mother’s Sacrifice in Karachi In Karachi, Saima Bibi, a single mother, works as a housemaid to pay for her son’s education at a low-cost private school. Despite her meager income, Saima prioritizes her son’s education, hoping it will secure him a better future. However, the rising fees and additional costs for books and uniforms are becoming unbearable. Saima fears she may have to pull her son out of school if her financial situation does not improve. These stories are just two examples of the countless parents across Pakistan who are struggling to navigate the education maze. Their struggles highlight the systemic issues that make access to quality education a luxury rather than a right. 2. The Public School Dilemma: Free but Flawed Public schools are supposed to be the backbone of Pakistan’s education system, providing free education to all children. However, the reality is far from ideal. Poor Infrastructure and Resources According to the Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22, 34% of public primary schools lack electricity, and 28% do not have functional toilets. Many schools operate in dilapidated buildings with broken furniture and no access to clean drinking water. These conditions make it difficult for students to focus on their studies and discourage parents from sending their children to school. Teacher Absenteeism and Quality Teacher absenteeism is another major issue in public schools. A 2019 World Bank report found that 15% of teachers in public schools are absent on any given day. Even when teachers are present, many are poorly trained and lack the motivation to teach effectively. As a result, learning outcomes in public schools are often dismal. The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2021 revealed that 57% of fifth-grade students in public schools cannot read a simple story in their native language. The Ghost School Phenomenon In some areas, parents face the added challenge of ghost schools—schools that exist only on paper but receive government funding. These schools deprive children of education and erode public trust in the system. According to a 2019 report by the Auditor General of Pakistan, thousands of ghost schools have siphoned off billions of rupees meant for education. 3. The Private School Paradox: Quality at a Cost For parents who can afford it, private schools offer a way out of the public school system. However, the cost of private education is often prohibitive for low- and middle-income families. High Fees and Hidden Costs Private schools in Pakistan charge a wide range of fees, from PKR 2,000 to PKR 20,000 per month, depending on the school’s location and reputation. In addition to tuition fees, parents must pay for uniforms, books, transportation, and extracurricular activities. For many families, these costs are simply unaffordable. The Rise of Low-Cost Private Schools In recent years, low-cost private schools have emerged as an alternative for families who cannot afford elite private schools but are dissatisfied with public education. These schools charge lower fees (around PKR 1,000-3,000 per month) and often provide better quality education than public schools. However, even these schools are out of reach for many families, especially in rural areas. A Mother’s Dilemma in Lahore Ayesha Khan, a mother of three in Lahore, faces a difficult choice. She wants to send her children to a private school but cannot afford the fees. The local public school is overcrowded and underfunded, leaving Ayesha with no good options. “I want my children to have a better future, but I don’t know how to make it happen,” she says. 4. The Gender Gap: A Barrier to Education For parents of girls, the challenges are even greater. Cultural norms, safety concerns, and a lack of girls’ schools often prevent parents from sending their daughters to school. Early Marriages and Gender Discrimination In many parts of Pakistan, girls are expected to marry young and prioritize household responsibilities over education. According to the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) Survey 2019-20, 32% of girls in rural areas are out of school, compared to 21% of boys. Early marriages and gender discrimination are major barriers to girls’ education. A Father’s Hope in Balochistan Abdul Rehman, a farmer in Balochistan, dreams of sending his daughter to school. However, the nearest girls’ school is 10 kilometers away, and Abdul cannot afford the transportation costs. “I want my daughter to be educated, but the system is stacked against us,” he says. 5. The Way Forward: Solutions for Parents and Policymakers The struggles of Pakistani parents highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms in the education sector. Here are some steps that can be taken to address the challenges: Increase Funding for Public Education The government must prioritize education by increasing the education budget to at least 4-6% of GDP. This funding should be used to

Pakistan’s education system is characterized by a stark divide between private and public schools. This divide is not just about who runs the schools—it’s about the quality of education, accessibility, affordability, and the opportunities available to students. While private schools are often seen as a beacon of quality education, public schools struggle with inadequate resources, poor infrastructure, and low learning outcomes. This article explores the great divide between private and public education in Pakistan, examining the historical context, current challenges, and the implications for the country’s future. 1. The Historical Context: How Did the Divide Begin? The roots of Pakistan’s education divide can be traced back to its colonial past. During British rule, education was primarily reserved for the elite, with a focus on producing clerks and administrators for the colonial machinery. After independence in 1947, Pakistan inherited a fragmented education system. The government attempted to expand access to education, but limited resources and political instability hindered progress. The Rise of Private Schools In the 1980s, private schools began to emerge as an alternative to the failing public education system. These schools, often run by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or entrepreneurs, promised better quality education and modern facilities. Over time, private schools became synonymous with quality, attracting middle- and upper-class families who could afford the fees. Neglect of Public Schools While private schools flourished, public schools were neglected. Successive governments failed to invest adequately in public education, leading to deteriorating infrastructure, poorly trained teachers, and outdated curricula. According to the Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22, there are over 150,000 public schools in the country, but many of them lack basic facilities like electricity, clean water, and functional toilets. 2. Quality of Education: A Tale of Two Systems The most significant difference between private and public schools lies in the quality of education they provide. Private Schools: A Focus on Excellence Private schools in Pakistan are known for their emphasis on quality education. They often follow international curricula, such as the Cambridge system, and employ well-trained teachers. Many private schools also offer extracurricular activities, modern facilities, and access to technology, which enhance the learning experience. According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2021, students in private schools consistently outperform their peers in public schools. For example, 65% of private school students in grade 5 can read a simple story in Urdu, compared to only 43% of public school students. Similarly, 58% of private school students can perform basic arithmetic, compared to 42% in public schools. Public Schools: Struggling to Keep Up In contrast, public schools face numerous challenges that affect the quality of education. Overcrowded classrooms, poorly trained teachers, and outdated teaching methods are common issues. The Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22 reveals that the student-teacher ratio in public schools is 40:1, compared to 25:1 in private schools. This disparity makes it difficult for teachers to provide individual attention to students. Moreover, public schools often lack the resources to implement modern teaching methods. Many schools do not have libraries, science labs, or computer facilities, which limits students’ exposure to critical skills needed in the 21st century. 3. Accessibility: Who Gets Left Behind? Accessibility is another major factor that distinguishes private and public schools in Pakistan. Public Schools: The Only Option for Many Public schools are the primary source of education for the majority of Pakistan’s population, especially in rural areas. They are free and, in theory, accessible to all. However, the quality of education in public schools often discourages parents from sending their children, particularly girls, to school. According to the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) Survey 2019-20, 32% of girls in rural areas are out of school, compared to 21% of boys. This gender disparity is partly due to the lack of safe and accessible schools for girls. Private Schools: A Privilege for the Few Private schools, on the other hand, are concentrated in urban areas and cater primarily to middle- and upper-class families. The high fees charged by private schools make them inaccessible to the majority of Pakistan’s population. According to a 2018 report by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), the average monthly fee for private schools in urban areas is PKR 3,000-5,000, which is beyond the reach of many families. Even low-cost private schools, which charge lower fees, are often unaffordable for low-income families. This creates a situation where only the privileged few have access to quality education, while the majority are left behind. 4. Affordability: The Cost of Education The affordability of education is a critical issue in Pakistan, where 24% of the population lives below the poverty line. Public Schools: Free but Inadequate Public schools are technically free, but the associated costs—such as uniforms, books, and transportation—can be prohibitive for low-income families. Many parents also perceive public schools as offering poor-quality education, which discourages them from sending their children to school. Private Schools: A Financial Burden Private schools, while offering better quality education, are a financial burden for many families. In addition to tuition fees, parents must pay for uniforms, books, transportation, and extracurricular activities. According to the PIDE report, the total cost of sending a child to a private school can range from PKR 10,000 to PKR 20,000 per month, depending on the school’s location and reputation. This financial burden forces many families to make difficult choices. Some parents pull their children out of school to work and support the family, while others take on debt to pay for their children’s education. 5. The Implications of the Divide The divide between private and public schools has far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s future. Widening Inequality The education divide exacerbates social and economic inequality. Children from wealthy families attend elite private schools and have access to better opportunities, while those from poor families are stuck in underfunded public schools. This disparity limits social mobility and perpetuates the cycle of poverty. Impact on National Development Education is a key driver of economic growth and development. By failing to provide quality education to all children, Pakistan is losing out on the potential of millions of its citizens. According to the World Bank, each additional year of schooling can increase an individual’s earnings

Pakistan, a country with a population of over 220 million, is facing one of the most severe education crises in the world. With an estimated 22 million children out of school, the nation is grappling with a problem that threatens its future development, economic stability, and social cohesion. This article delves into the scale of this crisis, its historical roots, the challenges faced by the education sector, and the long-term implications for Pakistan. By understanding the gravity of the situation, we can begin to explore solutions to ensure that every child has access to quality education. 1. The Scale of the Crisis: 22 Million Out-of-School Children Pakistan has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children in the world. According to UNICEF and Pakistan’s Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, approximately 22 million children between the ages of 5 and 16 are not attending school. This staggering figure represents nearly 44% of the total child population in this age group. To put it into perspective, this number is higher than the entire population of many countries, such as the Netherlands or Chile. Regional Disparities The crisis is not evenly distributed across the country. Provinces like Balochistan and Sindh have the highest rates of out-of-school children, with 65% and 52% respectively, according to the Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22. In contrast, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have relatively better enrollment rates, but even there, millions of children remain out of school. Gender Disparity Girls are disproportionately affected. In rural areas, cultural norms, early marriages, and safety concerns often prevent girls from attending school. The Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) Survey 2019-20 revealed that 32% of girls in rural areas are out of school, compared to 21% of boys. This gender gap is a significant barrier to achieving universal education. 2. Historical Perspective: How Did We Get Here? The roots of Pakistan’s education crisis can be traced back to its history. Since its inception in 1947, Pakistan has struggled to prioritize education. At the time of independence, the literacy rate was a mere 16%, and the country inherited a weak education infrastructure. Over the decades, successive governments have failed to address the systemic issues plaguing the education sector. Lack of Political Will Education has never been a top priority for Pakistan’s political leaders. Despite numerous education policies and plans, such as the National Education Policy 2009 and the Vision 2025 agenda, implementation has been weak. The education budget has consistently remained below 2-3% of GDP, far below the UNESCO-recommended 4-6%. Ghost Schools and Corruption One of the most glaring issues is the prevalence of ghost schools—schools that exist only on paper but receive government funding. According to a 2019 report by the Auditor General of Pakistan, thousands of ghost schools have siphoned off billions of rupees meant for education. This corruption has further eroded public trust in the government’s ability to deliver quality education. 3. Challenges Facing Pakistan’s Education Sector The education crisis in Pakistan is multifaceted, with numerous challenges contributing to the high number of out-of-school children. Below are some of the key issues: Poverty and Affordability For many families, especially in rural areas, education is a luxury they cannot afford. Even though public schools are technically free, the associated costs—such as uniforms, books, and transportation—are prohibitive for low-income households. As a result, many children are forced to work to support their families, perpetuating the cycle of poverty. Poor Quality of Education Even for those who do attend school, the quality of education is often subpar. Government schools, in particular, suffer from a lack of resources, poorly trained teachers, and outdated curricula. According to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2021, 57% of fifth-grade students in rural Pakistan cannot read a simple story in their native language, and **48% cannot perform basic arithmetic. Infrastructure Deficiencies Many schools, especially in rural areas, lack basic facilities such as clean drinking water, toilets, and electricity. The Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22 found that 34% of government primary schools do not have electricity, and 28% lack functional toilets. These conditions make it difficult for students, particularly girls, to attend school regularly. Cultural and Social Barriers In many parts of Pakistan, cultural norms and traditions discourage education, especially for girls. Early marriages, gender discrimination, and conservative attitudes often prevent girls from attending school. Additionally, children with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing education, as schools are rarely equipped to accommodate their needs. 4. Long-Term Implications for Pakistan The consequences of having 22 million out-of-school children are dire and far-reaching. If left unaddressed, this crisis will have profound implications for Pakistan’s future. Economic Impact Education is a key driver of economic growth. Without an educated workforce, Pakistan will struggle to compete in the global economy. According to the World Bank, each additional year of schooling can increase an individual’s earnings by 10%. By failing to educate its children, Pakistan is losing out on billions of dollars in potential economic growth. Social Inequality The education crisis exacerbates social inequality. Children from wealthy families attend elite private schools, while those from poor families are left behind. This disparity perpetuates a cycle of poverty and limits social mobility, creating a deeply divided society. Security Concerns Uneducated and unemployed youth are more vulnerable to extremism and criminal activities. Pakistan’s security challenges are, in part, a reflection of its failure to provide education and opportunities to its young population. Addressing the education crisis is essential for promoting peace and stability in the country. 5. The Way Forward: What Can Be Done? While the situation is dire, it is not hopeless. With concerted efforts, Pakistan can address its education crisis and ensure that every child has access to quality education. Here are some steps that can be taken: Increase Education Funding The government must prioritize education by increasing the education budget to at least 4-6% of GDP. This funding should be used to improve infrastructure, train teachers, and develop modern curricula. Combat Corruption Strong measures are needed to eliminate ghost schools and ensure that funds are used effectively. Transparency and accountability mechanisms should be put in place to monitor the use of education funds. Promote Girls’ Education Special programs should be launched to encourage girls’ enrollment and retention in schools.