Pakistan's Education Funding Deficit Worsens Under Government Criticism, Despite Growing Population
Published on 6.6.25
Education is a fundamental right and a crucial component of human development, yet Pakistan's public spending on education falls short of the recommended four-to-six percent of its GDP. This inadequate investment has resulted in subpar infrastructure and under-resourced schools, ultimately hindering the quality of education.
The government has been criticized for not allocating sufficient funds to the education sector. A report by the Pakistan Education Research Network found that public spending on education decreased from 2.6% of GDP in 2015-16 to 2.3% in 2020-21, a decline particularly concerning given the country's growing population and increasing demand for quality education.
The consequences of inadequate education spending are evident in the poor state of schools across Pakistan. Many institutions lack basic facilities, including electricity, water, and sanitation, making it difficult for students to learn effectively. Furthermore, a significant number of teachers lack proper training, which affects their ability to deliver quality education.
To address this issue, the government must increase investment in education, provide proper teacher training, and upgrade school facilities. This would not only improve educational outcomes but also promote social mobility and reduce inequality.
The government's failure to prioritize education has far-reaching consequences for the country's economic growth and development. It is essential that policymakers take immediate action to address this issue and allocate sufficient funds to the education sector.