Why education needs reform

The article critically examines Pakistan’s deteriorating education system, highlighting a series of challenges that plague state-run educational institutions across all levels. Primary education suffers from a lack of qualified teachers, insufficient infrastructure, and minimal financial resources, leaving many schools under-enrolled and ineffective. The article underscores the alarming divide between public and private education, where private institutions dominate but remain unaffordable for many, creating a class divide and socio-economic disparity. While the prime minister’s initiative to bring 26 million out-of-school children back to school is commendable, it risks being overshadowed by political instability, corruption, and bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Furthermore, the writer emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, including teacher training, administrative restructuring, and better utilization of resources in state institutions. He warns that neglecting quality education will deepen social and moral crises. The article calls for a renewed commitment to Article 25-A of the constitution, which mandates free and quality education for children aged five to sixteen. Without addressing these systemic flaws, the future of millions of Pakistani students remains bleak in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Overview:

This article highlights the structural and administrative flaws in Pakistan’s education system, highlighting the decline of state-run schools and the growing reliance on private education. It underscores the need for immediate reform to address inequality, improve quality, and meet constitutional obligations.

NOTES:

The article highlights Pakistan’s declining education system, emphasizing the poor state of primary education due to a lack of qualified teachers, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient funding. Many rural schools are ghost structures or operate with minimal staff, while urban public schools face under-enrollment. Private schools dominate but remain unaffordable for lower-income families, creating a widening class divide and socio-economic inequality. The prime minister’s initiative to enroll 26 million out-of-school children is a positive step but risks failure without addressing underlying issues like corruption, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and outdated administrative systems. The article stresses the need for comprehensive reforms, including teacher training, better resource allocation, and adherence to constitutional mandates like Article 25-A, which guarantees free and compulsory education. It warns that without immediate and sustained efforts, the education crisis will continue to deepen, exacerbating social and economic challenges.

Relevant CSS Syllabus Topics:

• Pakistan Affairs: Challenges in state education, constitutional obligations under Article 25-A.
• Current Affairs: Socio-economic inequality and the class divide.
• Governance and Public Policies: Need for administrative and infrastructural reforms in education.

Notes for Beginners:

Pakistan’s education system is struggling due to issues like unqualified teachers and poor infrastructure. For example, many rural schools have only one or two teachers for all subjects, leading to low-quality education. Private schools, though better, are too expensive for most families. This creates a divide between the rich and poor, where wealthier children get better opportunities. The government has promised to bring 26 million children back to school, but without proper reforms like teacher training and better facilities, this promise might not succeed.

Facts and Figures:

• 26 million: Number of out-of-school children targeted by the government.
• 2%: Students enrolled in state institutions.
• 8%: Students attending private schools.
• 40%: Population living below the poverty line.

To sum up, This article highlights the urgent need for education reform in Pakistan, addressing systemic flaws and inequalities. While the government’s initiatives are a step in the right direction, they require consistent effort and accountability. Only a robust and modernized education system can equip Pakistan’s youth to compete globally and contribute to national progress.