On International Day of Education, January 24, 2025, Senator Sehar Kamran underscores education as the cornerstone of societal advancement, urging equitable access and improved pedagogical frameworks to empower Pakistan's future generations for sustainable progress
Education is a matter of life and death for our nation. The world is moving so fast that if you do not educate yourselves, you will not only be completely left behind but will also be finished up.”
—Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah
No nation can achieve true development or progress without prioritizing education. It serves as the foundational cornerstone of civilization. Quality education has the transformative power to turn a disorganized society into an organized and civilized community. It is the only medium through which a moderate, progressive, and peace-loving nation can emerge.
Education enhances human capital, equipping individuals with the skills necessary to be productive and to contribute effectively to the economy. It is not only vital for empowering future generations but also acts as a key driver of socioeconomic development, peace, and technological advancement. In a country like Pakistan, where poverty remains a significant challenge, education plays a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing individuals with better job opportunities and the potential for higher incomes.
As Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, a prominent Muslim educationist and reformer, wisely stated, “Acquisition of knowledge of science and technology is the only solution for the problems of Muslims.”1 These words resonate strongly in today's world. If we are to empower the next generation, it is essential that we equip them with the invaluable gift of education and knowledge; otherwise, they risk being left behind in an ever-advancing and rapidly evolving landscape. Education is undeniably the catalyst for progress and development.
To foster a sustainable and equitable world, we must empower future generations through education, ensuring they possess the knowledge and skills necessary to innovate and address global challenges. Education nurtures critical thinking, creativity, and leadership, propelling societal advancement and long-term prosperity.
The Current State of Education in Pakistan
Pakistan’s constitution guarantees the right to education for its citizens, as enshrined in Article 25 A, which states: “The State shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law.”
The education system in Pakistan is governed by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, along with provincial education departments. It is structured into three levels:
Primary (Grades 1-5)
Secondary (Grades 6-10)
Higher education (Grades 11-12, followed by university-level education)
In a country like Pakistan, where poverty remains a significant challenge, education plays a crucial role in breaking the cycle of poverty by providing individuals with better job opportunities and the potential for higher incomes.
As reported by the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Pakistan’s current literacy rate stands at 62.3 percent, indicating that approximately 60 million individuals are illiterate.2 In contrast, neighboring countries report higher literacy rates: India stands at 77.70 percent,3 Bangladesh at 76.32 percent4 and Sri Lanka at 92.49 percent.5 These figures and such disparities are alarming.
Pakistan allocates a mere 1.7 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the education sector, a figure that underscores the severe underinvestment in this critical area. The persistent low literacy rate and insufficient educational budget are glaring indicators of the neglect this sector has faced since the country’s inception in 1947. This neglect significantly hampers efforts to achieve the fourth Sustainable Development Goal, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
According to the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), an estimated 22.8 million children aged 5-16 are currently out of school, making Pakistan home to the second-highest number of out-of-school children (OOSC) in the world. This alarming statistic represent 44 percent of the total population in this age group.6
The persistent low literacy rate and insufficient educational budget are glaring indicators of the neglect this sector has faced since the country’s inception in 1947. This neglect significantly hampers efforts to achieve the fourth Sustainable Development Goal, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
The inconsistent government policies regarding education reforms, coupled with the absence of a cohesive national vision, have contributed to the dire state of education in the country.
Notable Initiatives by Past Governments
Over the years, various governments have undertaken initiatives aimed at improving the education sector; however, many of these efforts have not yielded the desired outcomes. Key legislative measures include the National Education Policy, Education for All, and the Free and Compulsory Education Act-2012. Despite these initiatives, the challenges remain substantial, requiring renewed commitment and innovative strategies to elevate the education system in Pakistan.
According to United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), an estimated 22.8 million children aged 5-16 are currently out of school, making Pakistan home to the second-highest number of out-of-school children (OOSC) in the world.
The Role of Education in Empowering Future Generations
While the challenges confronting Pakistan’s education system are substantial, addressing these issues through effective educational strategies can empower the youth and drive national progress. The importance of education in shaping the country’s future cannot be overstated; it is fundamental not only for fostering knowledge and skills but also for enabling society to achieve sustainable development, prosperity, and peace—where human potential is recognized, and talent is nurtured.
Fostering Knowledge and Skills. In today’s rapidly evolving world, education extends far beyond rote learning. Equipping Pakistani youth with knowledge and skills is essential for cultivating responsible and informed citizens who can contribute positively to both their country and the global community. By honing these skills, young people will be better prepared to tackle the myriad socioeconomic and political challenges faced by Pakistan. Empowering future generations is crucial for enabling them to confront and resolve emerging issues effectively.
Pakistan's economy heavily relies on traditional industries, underscoring the urgent need to diversify into sectors such as technology, healthcare, and services. By prioritizing technical education and vocational training, Pakistan can provide its youth with the skills necessary to excel in high-demand sectors. Skills such as computer programming, digital marketing, electrical engineering, and carpentry are crucial for creating a competitive workforce that can thrive globally and fill local skill gaps.
Promoting Critical Thinking and Innovation. While fostering essential skills is foundational for a robust workforce, promoting critical thinking and innovation is equally important for long-term growth and adaptability. From an early age, students should be encouraged to think critically, refine their cognitive abilities to analyse problems, and devise innovative solutions. Teaching methodologies that emphasize data analysis, bias recognition, and evaluation can promote logic and reasoning among the masses. These approaches will help instil a growth mindset which encourages learning from mistakes, challenging existing assumptions, and fosters life-long learning.
In a country like Pakistan, where challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure are prevalent, the capacity to solve real-world problems is essential. An education system that emphasizes problem-solving, particularly in science, technology, and entrepreneurship, can equip students with the skills needed to tackle issues such as energy shortages, climate change, and healthcare disparities.
Bridging Gender Disparity and Social Empowerment. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Pakistan ranks 145th out of 146 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2022 Global Gender Gap Index, and 161st out of 191 countries on the Human Development Report’s 2022 Gender Inequality Index.6 Education is pivotal in empowering women and bridging gender disparities; it is essential for dismantling the barriers that hinder women’s access to education. Educating women can transform the socioeconomic destinies of countless families across the country. In a culturally and ethnically diverse nation like Pakistan, education can promote harmony and foster tolerance within society. It cultivates shared values of respect and understanding, which strengthen social cohesion and foster a sense of national identity.
Building Civic Engagement. Civic engagement is vital for Pakistan's future, as it encourages active participation in society and the global community. Education plays a crucial role in promoting awareness of civic rights and responsibilities, empowering individuals to engage in democratic processes and contribute to community development. By equipping youth with the right knowledge and skills, we can nurture a generation committed not only to democracy but also to economic and social progress. In Pakistan, where political instability and social inequality persist, fostering civic responsibility can help bridge divides and promote social cohesion.
To this end, I introduced the National Civic Education Commission Act, 2018,8 which aimed to inculcate knowledge about the constitution, fundamental rights, and democratic values in the young generation to foster democracy and responsible citizenship in the country. Through this bill, I took an initiative to incorporate the constitutional history, the importance of democracy, federalism, and respect for laws into the national curriculum. A conscious and responsible citizenry is crucial for strengthening democracy in the country.
Education as a Catalyst for National Progress
In Pakistan, where the majority of the population is young, it is imperative to equip future generations with the right knowledge and skills to positively impact the country’s growth and development. By providing youth with education, technology, and skills, Pakistan can cultivate a productive generation that values integrity and contributes meaningfully to society. A well-educated population can nurture a culture of entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of countless employment opportunities.
Education not only raises awareness but also highlights existing biases and prejudices within society. An educated populace is better equipped to make informed decisions, more likely to engage in the democratic process, and more capable of advocating for policies that benefit the community while holding decision-makers accountable for their actions. Thus, education serves as powerful catalyst for national progress, ensuring a prosperous and sustainable future.
According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Pakistan ranks 145th out of 146 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2022 Global Gender Gap Index, and 161st out of 191 countries on the Human Development Report’s 2022 Gender Inequality Index.
Recommendations for Future Progress
Recognizing the pivotal role of education in national development, it is essential to implement specific reforms and strategies that will prepare Pakistan's educational system to face future challenges. The following recommendations outline critical steps necessary for driving this transformation:
Increase in Budget Allocation. Pakistan currently allocates a limited portion of its GDP to education, which significantly hinders the quality of instruction and leaves millions of children, particularly in rural areas, without access to schooling. To address these issues, it is crucial to prioritize increasing the education budget to meet international standards. Such an investment will not only improve literacy rates but also enhance educational infrastructure. Emphasizing education, particularly girls’ education, has the potential to transform the socioeconomic landscape of the country by creating a skilled workforce and alleviating poverty.
Updating the Educational Curriculum to Modern Standards. Revising the national educational curriculum to align with contemporary international standards is imperative for preparing future generations. Equipping students with modern knowledge and skills will better prepare them to compete in a globalized world and respond effectively to emerging challenges.
Bridging the Rural-Urban Disparity. Educational access in rural areas is disproportionately limited compared to urban regions due to inadequate infrastructure, a shortage of qualified teachers and prevailing cultural norms. This disparity perpetuates a cycle of poverty by denying millions of children the opportunity to receive an education. Bridging this rural-urban divide is essential. The government must allocate additional resources and collaborate with non-governmental organisations to enhance existing facilities, implement teacher training programs, and leverage technology to facilitate remote learning. Strengthening digital literacy through public-private partnerships can be particularly effective. By offering scholarships, vocational training, and mentorship programs, opportunities can be created for rural youth to pursue education and develop skills aligned with the evolving job market.
Political Stability is Necessary for Progress. Political stability is vital for empowering future generations, as it facilitates the implementation of educational reforms, promotes effective governance, and ensures resource allocation where needed most. Stability helps bridge the rural-urban divide and empowers future generation with educational tools. Furthermore, a stable political environment allows for the execution of long-term policies and the strengthening of institutions, ultimately increasing school enrolment and enhancing educational infrastructure.
Ensuring Women’s Education. Addressing gender disparity in education is a significant challenge that requires decisive action. Women play an integral in society, and their full participation must be encouraged and supported by the government. Offering increased incentives to female students and teachers is essential, as is promoting greater female involvement in educational settings. Ensuring that all girls have equal access to learning opportunities will enable them to contribute productively to society and the nation. Additionally, educational campaigns targeting men are crucial to raise awareness about the importance of active female participation in today’s world.
Building a Knowledge-based Economy. Investing in research and development is essential for fostering a knowledge-based economy. Knowledge extends beyond rote memorization; it is a driver of innovation and technological advancement. Nurturing research and development initiatives will be critical to Pakistan’s economic growth and competitiveness.
In conclusion, the importance of education in shaping Pakistan's future cannot be overstated. Education is a transformative tool that can significantly improve the country's socioeconomic landscape. By investing in education—not only through increased budgets but also via curriculum reforms, gender inclusion, and efforts to bridge regional disparities—Pakistan can empower its youth to become agents of positive change.
The nation's future prosperity depends on the educational reforms implemented today, ensuring that future generations possess the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to navigate global challenges and contribute to national growth. Transforming Pakistan into a progressive, peaceful, and economically robust nation requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach to education.
The writer is a Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan for the term 2024-2029 and the Patron-in-Chief of a non-partisan think tank, the Centre for Pakistan and Gulf Studies (CPGS). She is a prominent politician, academician, and practitioner in the fields of regional and international defense and strategic studies. She previously served as an elected Member of the Upper House of the Parliament of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan from 2012-2018.
X: @SeharKamran
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