importance of higher education in pakistan essay

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importance of higher education in pakistan essay

By Hassan Shah

Higher education plays a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of a country. In Pakistan, higher education has seen significant growth and transformation over the years. With a population of over 220 million people, Pakistan faces both challenges and opportunities in its quest to provide quality higher education.

This article explores the state of higher education in Pakistan, its challenges, and the opportunities that lie ahead. Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nizamuddin has had a distinguished career in higher education, international economic development, and public policy. Here is a summary of his background and key roles:

United Nations System: Dr. Nizamuddin has over 45 years of experience working in the United Nations System. During this time, he was involved in planning, designing, and implementing projects aimed at creating global awareness and consensus on the importance of population in socioeconomic development. He served as an advisor to governmental and nongovernmental agencies on population and development studies. His assignments took him to various countries, including Jordan, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UN Headquarters in New York.

Vice Chancellor of the University of Gujrat : Dr. Nizamuddin played a crucial role in the growth of the University of Gujrat, transforming it into one of the leading higher education institutes in the country. As Vice Chancellor, he likely focused on academic excellence and the development of the university’s programs.

Pro Vice-Chancellor at Private Universities: In addition to his role at the University of Gujrat, Dr. Nizamuddin served as a Pro Vice-Chancellor at a couple of private universities. This experience indicates his involvement in the administration and leadership of higher education institutions.

Chairperson of Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC): Dr. Nizamuddin assumed the position of Chairperson of the Punjab Higher Education Commission, where he worked to introduce significant changes in the higher education sector in the Punjab region. His focus was on promoting excellence in teaching and research, likely aiming to enhance the quality of education and research activities in the province.

Action Against Unlawful Sub-Campuses: During his tenure as the Chairperson of PHEC, Dr. Nizamuddin led efforts to address issues related to unlawful sub-campuses, affiliations, and franchises of private sector degree-awarding institutions in Punjab. The commission, under his leadership, took strict actions against such unauthorized operations, emphasizing the need for proper approvals and compliance with educational regulations. Challenges in Pakistani Higher Education

Access and Enrolment: Access to higher education remains a significant challenge in Pakistan. While the number of universities and colleges has increased in recent years, a large portion of the population still faces barriers to enrollment. Limited access is particularly pronounced in rural areas and among marginalized communities.

Quality Assurance: Maintaining high-quality education is essential for producing skilled graduates who can contribute to the country’s growth. Pakistan’s higher education system faces issues related to the quality of education, outdated curricula, and the lack of standardization in evaluation and accreditation.

Underinvestment: The underinvestment in higher education is a persistent issue. Universities often struggle to attract and retain qualified faculty, leading to issues with teaching and research. The lack of resources also hampers infrastructure development and research opportunities.

Political Interference: Higher education institutions in Pakistan have frequently experienced political interference in their administration and decision-making processes. This has led to instability and a lack of academic freedom, which are detrimental to the growth of universities and the quality of education.

Gender Disparities: While there have been notable improvements in gender parity in education, disparities still exist. Women often face social and cultural barriers that limit their access to higher education. Ensuring equal opportunities for all remains a challenge.

Curricular Relevance: The curricula in many institutions are criticized for being outdated and not aligned with the needs of a rapidly changing job market. Reforms in curriculum and teaching methods are essential to equip graduates with skills that are relevant in today’s world.

Overall, Dr. Nizamuddin’s career demonstrates his commitment to education and development, both at the national and international levels, and his willingness to take decisive actions to ensure the quality and legality of educational institutions and programs in the Punjab region. He looked for the opportunities for Improvement i.e.

Increased Funding: One of the key opportunities is increasing investment in higher education. A higher allocation of government funds and the encouragement of public-private partnerships can significantly improve the infrastructure, faculty quality, and research capabilities of universities.

Quality Assurance: Strengthening quality assurance mechanisms is crucial. Implementing rigorous accreditation and evaluation processes can ensure that institutions meet international standards, attracting students from around the world and enhancing the value of Pakistani degrees.

Research and Innovation: Fostering a culture of research and innovation is essential for the progress of higher education. Encouraging collaboration between universities and industries can help produce graduates who are better prepared for the workforce. Academic Autonomy: Ensuring academic autonomy for institutions can mitigate political interference and enable universities to make decisions in the best interest of education and research.

Curriculum Modernization: Regularly updating curricula to meet the demands of the modern job market is crucial. This can be achieved through collaboration with industry experts and international institutions.

Pakistan’s higher education system faces a series of challenges that need to be addressed for the country to harness its full potential. While these challenges are significant, there are also opportunities for improvement, ranging from increased investment to academic autonomy and gender equality. Realizing these opportunities will not only enhance the quality of education but also contribute to the socio-economic development of the nation.

An experienced administrator like Dr. Nizamuddin in education can bring substantial positive changes in the system that will provide a solid base for the future of nation building. With the right strategies and commitment, Pakistan can create a thriving higher education system that empowers its citizens and prepares them for a rapidly evolving world.

Higher Education Systems and Institutions, Pakistan

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Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world with a population of 207 million GDP of 278,913 billion. The country is divided into four provincial territories, namely, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, and regions including the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu Kashmir. The national language spoken is Urdu along with English, the official language, by majority of the population.

Higher Education System Development

In 1947 at the time of independence, Pakistan had one teaching university – Punjab University in Lahore – that had a student enrolment of 644. At this time, the National Education Conference formed several committees including adult education directed toward higher education (HE). This committee aimed to make all adults literate and establish a permanent system closely linked with compulsory primary education. The second university established was the University of Sindh functioning as an examining body...

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Shakil, S. (2019). Higher Education Systems and Institutions, Pakistan. In: Encyclopedia of International Higher Education Systems and Institutions. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9553-1_578-1

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Flourishing The Higher Education in Pakistan: An Exploratory Analysis of The Role of Higher Education Commission (HEC)

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The paramount aim of the underlying study is to explore the efficacy of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) through evaluating the effectiveness of the key initiatives which have been taken by the HEC to flourish the higher education and research environment in Pakistan. Using exploratory analysis, the study unleashes that the higher education and research culture has improved since 2002 owing to the HEC’s effective initiatives. These include, but are not limited to, increasing the capacity of in-service teaching faculty, induction of PhD faculty in public and private sector universities, award of indigenous and foreign scholarships, and provision of research grants, all of which had a positive influence on higher education through capacity building. A commendable increase in the number of universities along with the induction of highly qualified faculty has been witnessed, specifically the induction of indigenously produced PhDs. Apart from these, the HEC has played an instrumental role in helping to improve the gender parity by 45% in education sector. Moreover, in order to trace out what problems the HEC has been facing to implement its reforms, we conducted KIIs to the HEC officials who have been remained the part of policy implementation. The KIIs discloses that the deteriorating budgetary allocation, less cooperation from public sector universities, and questioning the HEC’s autonomy are the major challenges among others to the HEC in promoting an effective and inclusive higher education in Pakistan. The KIIs suggest that the autonomy of the HEC should not be compromised, and the liaison between universities and the HEC should be increased.

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A Critical Analysis of Higher Education System in Pakistan

Higher education may be defined as ‘’any type of education offered in post-secondary institutions of learning, usually at the end of a course of study, a degree, diploma, or certificate of higher education.’’ Higher education includes teacher training schools, junior colleges, and institutes of technology. Higher education institutions include not only universities and colleges but also various vocational schools that provide preparation in fields such as law, theology, medicine, business, music and art. Higher education also includes teacher training schools, junior colleges, and the Institute of Technology. Oxford dictionary defines higher education as ‘’education at a college or a university, especially to a degree level.’’ With massive population growth, higher education is the need of the hour for the Pakistani youth. The young generation eagerly seeks quality education from the top institutions so they may be endorsed by mega corporations. However, the glass is still half empty as usual. From the bureaucratic “Red Tape” to lack to affiliated programs, Higher education system in Pakistan suffers from many illnesses. This is further hampered by the traditional methods of education and costly fee structure of the institutes. In addition to, low GDP investment in higher education, there is a mismatch between the attained qualifications and skills needed by the industry. Although these drawbacks plague our country’s higher education system , it is still possible to bring the necessary change. A strong commitment to research and development is the core to reviving the Higher education system in Pakistan . In addition, the reduction in corporate prices is significant. Focusing on investment in technology instead of old brick and mortar companies is clearly more lucrative. Restructuring the institutions is crucial in this regard. Instead of the goal of getting a job and joining the rat race, our education system direly needs to focus on creating entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, thinkers, and writers. Implementation of the policy framework will ensure the change in brought about.

Drawbacks in Higher Education System

The current state of higher education in Pakistan is depressing. There are many faults in the system. The most important fault is the rising cost of a balanced education compared to the benefits of a university degree. No matter how important the university education is, people have to bear the brunt of the importance of universities. Although higher education usually requires to succeed in the workforce, the ability to pay for university has become difficult for many. If the cost of higher education exceeds the affordability range of the middle class, the problem may become more severe. The situation is further exacerbated by irrational financial solutions for stranded students. There is hardly a culture of offering online classes so that students do not have to pay for campus housing, meal plans, and more. Increasing privatization of public universities continues to hamper affordable Higher education for deserving students. This directly affects the development and prosperity of the country.

In the current era, it has become a serious challenge for many parents to finance their child’s higher education plan even through a public university. In this scenario, privatization of education is equivalent to adding insult to injury. As there is lack of government initiated funding for higher education institutions , universities seek funding from private sources. As a result, universities begin to fund their students through a combination of tuition and other business interests.

In this age of modern technology, outdated methods and outdated curricula are still ubiquitous. By and large, teaching methods are not moving away from the old-fashioned model of lectures. These methods make students more inactive. Even in the most well-known universities, the curriculum is still taught out of history with traditional methods. Lecturers and professors from top universities, such as UET Lahore, NEDUET Karachi, Aga Khan Medical University Karachi and the University of Health Sciences Lahore, give classroom lectures. On Campus students at Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton universities are involved in studying project-based problem-solving.

High quality faculty recognition is another disease that our higher education system in Pakistan is going through. Quality faculty is essential for quality education and research. Without a competent faculty, providing quality education is a distant dream. There is a severe shortage of eminent professors and lecturers in our education system. Similarly, there is a lack of research in Pakistani universities due to lack of quality teachers. The most compelling proof of this is that, since its inception in 1947, our country has not produced a single ‘real thinker’. In addition, with the shortage of excellent teachers, our universities also lack PhD holders. Therefore, the nation is expected to participate in basic and practical research in Pakistani universities to minimize the problems of higher education.

The lack of a strong commitment to research and the creation of knowledge is a reflection of the fact that our system is in dire straits.

An important factor in the production of knowledge is the existence of research-related, knowledge-generating institutions. Instability in attracting and retaining high-performing researchers negatively affects institutional productivity. There are many examples in our country that paint a serious picture of our higher education system . No attention paid to innovation in institutions intensifies the problems of higher education system in Pakistan . Our higher education system lacks innovation. The low quality of science education in our educational institutions manifests itself on a variety of fronts. Without any shadow of ambiguity, Pakistan lags behind the world in innovation. Sadly, Pakistan ranks 107th out of 141 countries in the Global Innovation Index (GII) . It ignites the fire of economic growth and development. Similarly, the standard of HEC’s wrong policy emphasizes quantity only, with little or no emphasis on quality as our higher education system lacks creativity and innovation. It is important to keep in mind the fact that not a single Pakistani research journal in the field of engineering has received international exposure, nor has it affected the scientific community at large. Low GDP investment in excessive higher education is a challenge for our education system.

The result of this disease is also an obstacle to the development of the nation. Because education and development are directly proportional to each other, without investing in education, the country’s prosperity remains a farfetched concept. Education is an area that has attracted the least attention from the government. This reinforces the notion that education is not a priority in Pakistan. So in order to dismantle the above mentioned notion Pakistan should have to pay attention and take precautionary measures regarding higher education development to get maximum and productive outcomes.

Remedies to Reform the Higher Education System

First and foremost, higher education must be affordable. In recent years, university tuition costs have skyrocketed. Due to the rising cost, students either do not enter university or drop out later during the program. There are many ways to make Higher Education more affordable. Improving the productivity of the institution is a good area to start on. The number of students enrolled should be maxed out which will directly affect the fee structure as the cost of providing education per student will drop. Furthermore, the government needs to provide incentives and subsidies with proper accountability and transparency.

Further on, public-private partnerships should be offered to solve our higher education problems. With the stagnation of education and the privatization of institutions, access to higher education has become increasingly difficult. Through innovative partnerships with leading universities, we maximize higher education opportunities. It also ensures the success of students and staff. Similarly, these developments have the potential to transform the higher education system . Many countries have mutual partnerships with private companies. Simon Marginson (Professor of Higher Education at the University of Oxford) states in his book that through public-private partnerships the entire education system in his country has entirely changed.

Another area which needs improvement is Research & Development. It thrives when different groups freely discuss different perspectives. Unlike universities like Harvard and Stanford, our education system is based on a classroom approach. This traditional method of trains the student to think as the teacher is thinking, instead of self-thinking and self-assessment. There is need reform public policy that identifies the core capabilities of each school, college and university to nurture them in research and creativity in all schools, colleges and universities.

Reshaping the institutional image will also help solving issues with higher education system in Pakistan. The curriculum and theories taught in Pakistani universities have hardly been upgraded. Curriculum is rarely revised. The HEC reviews the curriculum every three years through the relevant National Curriculum Review Committees (NCRCs). However, there is a huge difference between policy making and its implementation. Therefore, incorporating innovative ideas and methods into design courses helps to stimulate students’ ability to enhance their performance and abilities. Because the purpose of this study is to explore creativity and imagination of the university students so they are motivated to create work through pedagogical design.

We also need to build institutions that allow students to excel in their professional lives. In this scenario, where there is a lack of quality in the institutions, the workhorse development is a distant desire. In order to provide quality education that is in line with international standards, it is important to build training institutes. Clearly we need Skill. So we need to establish high quality institutions. The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Quaid-e-Azam University, Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) are good examples.

Lastly, we need to fight for equality, including quota system in education. People who failed to get a fair share in education for reasons they could not help include Gender discrimination. According to Pakistan’s recent economic survey, the female literacy rate is still lower than the male literacy rate. Similarly, due to caste, religion-based discrimination, many are left out of the education system altogether. Pakistan is committed to bringing them into the system. However this needs to be a priority.

Our education system is preparing graduates with their heads full of facts, textbooks and teacher’s lectures. Which gives a well-rounded mind. But in the age of the Internet, a well-rounded mind is not needed. We can find anything with two mouse clicks. What you are looking for is a great brain. A mind that reacts to unfamiliar facts and details that actually synthesize information that has not been studied before.

Higher Education is a cornerstone of a country’s development. Education provides people with a means of raising living standards and removing gender barriers. At the same time, there are many challenges in the higher education system . The defects of the higher education system in Pakistan are nowhere near any long term fix. Significantly unhealthy curricula, unbearable campus fees, early dropouts and unemployment were the main obstacles to the flourishing of our education system.

Our government has made some efforts to overcome this dire situation, such as the National Education Policy and Fee Compensation Schemes . However, these efforts are necessary but not a sufficient way to improve the higher education . Solution is to redesign the institutions for student success. Equally important is helping students through the financial aid cycle . Furthermore, we need a strong commitment to research and knowledge creation. To advance this agenda, it is important to develop an ecosystem for faculty members. Alongside the government also needs to focus and develop channels of online learning especially since the arrival of the Pandemic. These channels will need support from the ecommerce sector to provide the students and distant learners with the necessary equipment to create streamlined learning environment. Kitaabnow.com has already contributed to the future of Higher Education System in Pakistan by implementing a true version of the Online Book Shop to supply everything needed by an average student.

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Higher education plays a crucial role in the development and progress of any country and this is especially true for Pakistan. In recent years the government of Pakistan has taken a number of steps to improve the state of higher education in the country recognizing the critical role that it plays in driving economic growth promoting social mobility and advancing scientific research and innovation.

One of the most important roles of higher education in Pakistan is in driving economic growth and development. Through higher education individuals are able to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern economy whether in traditional industries such as agriculture and manufacturing or in emerging fields such as technology and finance. By providing a skilled and educated workforce higher education helps to attract foreign investment and promote economic growth.

In addition to driving economic growth higher education also plays a key role in promoting social mobility in Pakistan. By providing access to quality education to individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds higher education can help to break down barriers to social and economic advancement. This is particularly important in a country like Pakistan where there are significant disparities in income and access to education between different regions and social groups.

Higher education also plays an important role in advancing scientific research and innovation in Pakistan. Through research and development higher education institutions can drive advances in fields such as medicine engineering and agriculture as well as in emerging areas such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence. By promoting scientific research and innovation higher education can help to position Pakistan as a leader in these critical fields driving economic growth and improving the standard of living for its citizens.

Despite the many important roles that higher education plays in Pakistan there are still significant challenges facing the sector. These include issues such as limited access to education low levels of funding for higher education institutions and a lack of qualified and trained faculty. To address these challenges the government of Pakistan has launched a number of initiatives aimed at expanding access to higher education improving the quality of education and attracting top talent to the sector.

These initiatives include programs to expand access to education in rural areas increase funding for higher education institutions and promote research and innovation in key areas. The government has also launched programs to attract talented faculty members from around the world as well as to encourage Pakistani students to pursue higher education abroad and then return to contribute to the development of their home country.

In conclusion the role of higher education in Pakistan is critical to the countrys economic social and scientific development. By providing access to quality education promoting social mobility and driving scientific research and innovation higher education institutions can play a key role in advancing Pakistans development and improving the lives of its citizens. While there are still significant challenges facing the sector the governments initiatives and investments in higher education are promising steps towards realizing this vision.

The role of higher education in Pakistan also extends to the development of a knowledgeable and informed citizenry. Through higher education individuals can develop critical thinking skills engage in independent research and analysis and gain a broad understanding of the world around them. This in turn can lead to greater civic engagement social activism and the development of an informed and empowered population.

Moreover higher education institutions can also play a critical role in promoting cultural and intellectual diversity in Pakistan. By fostering an environment of intellectual inquiry and debate higher education can encourage the exploration of diverse perspectives and worldviews. This can help to break down social barriers and promote greater understanding and tolerance between different groups in Pakistani society.

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Pakistan’s new government must wake up to the education emergency

Young people are leaving the country in droves yet no political party is committed to reforming higher education, says asghar zaidi.

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Pakistani commuters climb on a crowded public transport vehicle in Karachi, to illustrate 'State of emergency'

Every year, a significant number of young Pakistanis embark on journeys abroad. What motivates this mass exodus, particularly among the educated demographic? The answer lies in the pursuit of a brighter tomorrow – one marked by superior education and promising employment opportunities.

Among other reasons, the decision to seek opportunities overseas stems from the lack of satisfactory higher education standards at home. Despite having acquired degrees domestically, many graduates face a stark reality of limited job opportunities, prompting them to explore foreign shores where educational and professional avenues are more plentiful.

Moreover, Pakistan’s volatile economic and political landscape, coupled with rising unemployment and inflation rates, further exacerbates the problem. In such trying circumstances, it’s no wonder that a considerable portion of our talent wishes to settle abroad permanently, abandoning the homeland in pursuit of better prospects.

This brain drain poses a significant challenge to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Rather than losing our brightest minds to foreign lands, it is imperative for the government to harness the potential of our youth, to tap the so-called demographic dividend. This necessitates not only improving the standards of higher education but also creating an environment conducive to retaining talent and leveraging their skills for national progress.

But examining the election manifestos and educational priorities outlined by the four major political parties in the lead-up to this year’s disputed parliamentary election, one might observe a concerning lack of detailed insights, leaving doubts as to whether these parties will uphold their commitments.

Among the educational priorities outlined by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), there is a pledge to increase the base budget for higher education by 0.5 per cent, alongside a commitment for 30 per cent of those of typical university age to enrol in higher education, up from the current 13 per cent.

Similarly, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has proposed allocating 4 per cent of gross domestic product to education. The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) both increase this to 5 per cent, while the PPP also aims to dedicate an additional 0.1 per cent to research and development.

JI emphasises a boost in funding for science and technology and the Higher Education Commission. It also aspires to establish 50 new universities and technical colleges, as well as advocating for segregated education for males and females, and offering interest-free loans to students, primarily benefiting those pursuing higher education.

While there is discussion about augmenting the education budget, it appears that none of the political administrations is truly committed to its earnest implementation. And although certain aspects pertaining to education are outlined in the manifestos, the absence of pledges for the establishment of thinktanks and the dearth of policy papers addressing higher education are conspicuous.

Since 2010 and the passing of the 18th amendment to the country’s constitution, education in Pakistan has been a provincial matter. However, it is paradoxical that despite this decentralisation, the majority of funding for public sector universities still comes from the federal Higher Education Commission. If we are to address the challenges in higher education effectively, it is imperative to grant greater autonomy to provincial educational authorities.

The current system of coordination, monitoring and accountability has introduced new complexities in the governance of higher education. Continuous budget cuts, government interference and bureaucratic dominance over academic leadership have exacerbated the challenges faced by higher education institutions. The absence of permanent vice-chancellors in the majority of universities – caused by a stall in recruitment since the start of the caretaker government in August – has worsened the situation, leading to a deterioration in the quality of education and academic standards. It seems that political leaders are more interested in bureaucracy than they are in global, quality education experts.

Amid the challenges, there are bright spots. Pakistan’s higher education sector boasts esteemed institutions such as Government College University Lahore , Lahore University of Management Sciences , National University of Sciences and Technology , Institute of Business Administration - Karachi and Habib University . These institutions lead the charge in enhancing educational standards and driving research initiatives, and by recognising and capitalising on these strengths, we can pave the way for socio-economic growth.

But urgent action is needed. Pakistan should declare an education emergency and overhaul all levels of education, particularly in the fields of science and technology, with the guidance of international experts. Reforms aligned with global trends and involving the elimination of political interference are crucial steps forward.

Substantial changes to curriculum development and academic training are imperative, too. Moreover, strengthening the connection between education and employment outcomes is vital for ensuring that graduates are equipped for success in the job market.

In essence, addressing Pakistan’s educational challenges requires concerted efforts by the new eight-party coalition, including bold reforms and a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent among young people.

Asghar Zaidi is honorary adviser of Crescent Model Higher Secondary School in Lahore. He was vice-chancellor of Government College University Lahore from 2019 to 2023.

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Pakistan is Using Innovative Approaches for Inclusive Education: GEM Report 2020

Idara-e-Taleem-o-Aagahi (ITA) organized and co-hosted the national virtual launch of the UNESCO’s 2020 GEM Report, calling all stakeholders to concentrate on those being left behind and move towards inclusion in education, particularly after COVID-19. GEM Report Senior Analyst Anna Cristina D'Addio gave a presentation on the 2020 GEM Report and shared the key findings from the report.

Federal Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training Shafqat Mahmood was the chief guest on the occasion. Launching the report, he said: "The online event featured an interactive high-level panel that discussed the key messages and recommendations in the report. “The GEM Report reminds us of the continued disparities in education, particularly in ensuring access of quality education to all, which is the foundation of inclusion,”

UNESCO Pakistan Country Representative Patricia McPhillips said: “ The GEM Report emphasizes the global need for better data collection and subsequent use,” she said, adding that it is encouraging to note that Pakistan’s inclusion-oriented data collection initiative is highlighted in the report as a best practice. Recognizing the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018 and introduction of admission quotas to Disability Act 2014, she said that these are important milestones for ensuring inclusive education.

Speaking at the event, Department for International Development (DFID) Pakistan Country Director Annabel Gerry said , “T his report comes at a critical moment, where the coronavirus pandemic has added to the hidden emergency of exclusion from education. Since 2011, over 10 million children in primary school have benefited from UK support to Government of Pakistan’s education reforms, of which 4.7 million are girls. But significant inequalities remain by region, socio-economic status, disability, religion and gender. I hope this report will catalyze the will and resources to realize inclusive and equitable quality education in Pakistan. No country can ever reach its full potential unless every one of its citizens can reach their full potential. This is why we put inclusion at the heart of everything we do,” she said .

Other panelists included Planning Commission of Pakistan’s Member Social Sector Dr. Shabnum Sarfraz, Institute of Development and Economic Alternatives (IDEAS) Director and LUMS School of Education Interim Dean Dr. Faisal Bari and Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP) Executive Director Muhammad Atif Sheikh.

ITA CEO Baela Raza Jamil said, "There is much to do to set the actions right for Inclusive Education in Pakistan."

The report provides an in-depth analysis of key factors for the exclusion of learners in education systems worldwide including background, identity and ability and urges the countries to focus on those left behind as schools reopen so as to foster more resilient and equal societies."

Persistence of exclusion: The 2020 GEM Report notes that 258 million children and youth were entirely excluded from education, with poverty as the main obstacle to access. In Pakistan, hardly any poor rural women in Pakistan complete secondary school despite a target for universal secondary completion by 2030. Moreover, the gap in the probability of boys receiving more household resources for education was 13 percentage points for 5-9-year-olds and 24 points for 10-14-year-olds. Parents can thus help or hinder inclusion.

Inequitable foundations: The Profiles Enhancing Education Reviews (PEER) introduced by GEM Report show that many countries still practice education segregation, which reinforces stereotyping, discrimination and alienation. Education Acts for all four provinces in Pakistan mention children with disabilities/special needs and lay down mechanism for educating CWDs in separate schooling system based on the National Policy for Persons with Disabilities 2002. But education policies vary in emphasis on inclusion. In Punjab, under the 2012 inclusive education policy framework, students with mild and moderate disabilities are admitted to mainstream primary and lower secondary schools whose teachers are trained by master trainers of the Department of Special Education.

Blatant exclusion: The report states that fewer than 10% of countries have laws that help ensure full inclusion in education while exclusion can be very blatant in some laws. Although Article 16 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women prohibits forced and child marriage but girls can get married at age 16 in most provinces in Pakistan.

Alienating learners: The report further states that reflecting learners’ diverse needs require textbooks and curricula to be inclusive, yet many still alienate by omission or false representation – Girls and women only made up 24% of references in secondary school English-language textbooks in Punjab while women were represented in less prestigious occupations and as introverted and passive .

Chronic lack of quality data on those left behind: Pakistan is among the countries that do not collect data on disabilities in their Education Management Information System (EMIS). Household surveys are, however, the key to breaking education data down by individual characteristics. The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) Pakistan survey, led by ITA, has included Washington Group’s Child Functioning Module to estimate the disability prevalence and educational status of children with disabilities in some regions of the country.

Signs of progress towards inclusion: The 2020 GEM Report notes that Pakistan is using positive, innovative approaches to transition to inclusion. The country is testing a ‘third gender’ option in data collection tools while Pakistan’s Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2018 prohibits discrimination in education and establishes their right to education and a 3% quota for transgender children in mainstream public and private education institutions. Moreover, in 2019, Pakistan’s Government Rules and Disability Act 2014 introduced admission quotas for students with disabilities at all education levels. Tertiary education institutions were asked to exempt candidates with disabilities from admission tests, relax age limits, provide fee concessions, and offer appropriate examination modalities.

Media Coverage:

English Coverage:

https://www.dawn.com/news/1571663/conscious-effort-being-made-to-promote-inclusive-education-using-technology-minister

https://tribune.com.pk/epaper/news/Islamabad/2020-07-29/NmJjYmI4MjI5YWM3NWU0NzNiYmRmMzQ3OTkyMWJmYjQuanBlZw%3D%3D

https://www.brecorder.com/news/40008334

Photo Release:

https://www.app.com.pk/photos-section/photos-section/islamabad-july-28-%C2%96-federal-minister-for-education-and-professional-training-shafqat-mahmood-addressing-during-the-virtual-launch-of-global-education-monitoring-report-2020-by-idara-e-taleem-o/

Urdu Coverage:

https://www.express.pk/story/2063319/1/

https://twnews.co.uk/pk-news/nzm-t-lym-myn-ttykhnlwjy-khy-st-ml-khw-frwg-dy-rhy-hyn-wfqy-wzyr-t-lym

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Essay on Education In Pakistan in 1000 Words

English Essay on Education in Pakistan with Outlines & Facts in Easy Language For Students of All Classes Hello readers! Welcome to an insightful journey through the realm of education in Pakistan. Education is a vital tool that has the super power to transform lives, communities & even nations. In this essay on education in Pakistan we shall explore the historical evolution of the education system in Pakistan, its current state, the key challenges it faces & the initiatives and recommended educational reforms that aim to improve education in our beloved country. So, let’s start reading the main part of Education in Pakistan essay!

Table of Contents

Historical Overview of Education in Pakistan:

If we want to understand the present situation of education in Pakistan then it is essential to take a glimpse into the past. The educational system in Pakistan has evolved over time. It has also shaped by the influence of various civilizations. The early education system was primarily focused on religious education. Madrasas were playing a vital role in imparting knowledge. However, the British colonial era introduced a modern education system. This new system was emphasizing on English as the medium of instruction.

During the post-independence period, Pakistan faced numerous challenges in establishing a robust education system. Despite these hurdles, the govt made significant efforts to expand access to education & improve literacy rates. Today, Pakistan boasts a diverse education landscape that includes public and private schools, colleges, universities, vocational institutes & religious seminaries.

Current State of Education in Pakistan:

Its an admitted fact that progress has been made in educational system of Pakistan but the current state of education in Pakistan is still a cause for concern., According to UNESCO, Pakistan has 1 of the highest out-of-school children rates globally as approximately 22.8 million children are out of school . This alarming statistic highlights the pressing need for interventions to ensure all children have access to quality education atleast at school level

Gender disparity is another significant issue plaguing the education system in Pakistan. Girls face multiple barriers like cultural norms, poverty & security concerns. These barriers hinder their access to education. This gender gap not only deprives girls of their basic right to education but also hampers the nation’s development potential.

Challenges Faced by the Education System in Pakistan:

The education system in Pakistan faces various challenges both systemic and socio-cultural in nature. Inadequate infrastructure, lack of trained teachers & scarcity of resources are major hurdles to providing quality education in Pakistan. Many public sector schools lack basic facilities like proper classrooms, electricity, clean drinking water & sanitation facilities. All these issues make it challenging for students to learn in a conducive environment.

Moreover socio-cultural factors like child labour, early marriages & societal biases against girls’ education perpetuate the cycle of illiteracy. These challenges are further exacerbated by govt policies that often fail to prioritize education or allocate sufficient funds for its development.

Initiatives & Reforms for Improving Education in Pakistan:

Despite the challenges, numerous initiatives & reforms have been undertaken to improve education in Pakistan. The govt, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) & individuals have played significant roles in addressing educational challenges.

The federal govt has launched programs like the National Education Policy, which aims to enhance access, quality & equity in education. Additionally the establishment of the PM scholarships, free laptops and fee reimbursement schemes have provided financial assistance to deserving students for enabling them to pursue higher education.

NGOs like Zindagi trust, Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan, The Citizens Foundation (TCF), Akhuwat, Fauji Foundation, Bunyad Foundation and Developments in Literacy (DIL) have also made commendable contributions by establishing schools in remote areas & offering scholarships to underprivileged students. Moreover individuals like Malala Yousafzai, a Nobel laureate and education activist have raised global awareness about the importance of education and advocating for girls’ right to education.

Impact of Education on Society and Economy:

Education plays a pivotal role in shaping society & driving economic growth. A well-educated population is more likely to participate actively in civic affairs, contribute to the workforce and make informed decisions . Education empowers individuals to break free from the cycle of poverty by fostering social progress & equality.

Moreover education equips individuals with the necessary job oriented skills & knowledge to thrive in a rapidly changing global economy. By investing in education, Pakistan can unlock its human capital potential, promoting innovation, entrepreneurship & sustainable economic development.

Future of Education in Pakistan

In my personal views the future of education in Pakistan is bright as government is spending more on primary and higher education. Girls are being encourged to join schools. Interest free student loans are being disbursed by many banks. Lot of NGOs are contributing too in this sector. Akhuwat has launched first free university in Pakistan. HEC is arranging foreign scholarships for local students. Lot of new universities have been given charter. Lot of educational websites have been launched in Pakistan to promote education and serve this noble cause like studysolutions.pk and arqumhouse.edu.pk etc. Digiskills is providing access to free IT courses in Pakistan. TEVTA is also there for technical education.

New Initiatives

Many universities have also launched their online and distance learning programs to facilitate the students from remote areas. Sindh government is giving scholarships to large number of school going girls. New Single National Curriculum (SNC) has been launched in the country. Modern education is being introduced in Madaris. 2 years BA/BSc and MA/MSc programs have been replaced with the 4 years BS programs. Lot of new BS programs have been launched as per the needs of local and international job markets.

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Conclusion:

In short the education is a fundamental right & a powerful tool for social transformation and economic prosperity. However the education system in Pakistan still faces numerous challenges that hinder access, quality & equality. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the government, NGOs and individuals to prioritize education and work collectively to address these challenges.

Let us join hands and support initiatives that aim to improve education in Pakistan. Every child of the world deserves the opportunity to learn, grow & realize their full potential. Together we can unlock the power of knowledge & pave the way for a brighter future for Pakistan. Hopefully you have enjoyed reading this essay on education In Pakistan .

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