26 Million Out of School in Pakistan Despite Education Gains, Report Finds
— October 25, 2024
ISLAMABAD (AIA) The Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE) released the “Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2022-23,” revealing notable progress in formal and informal education across the nation.The report shows a 12% increase in the number of educational institutions, a 3% rise in student enrollment, and a 19% growth in teaching staff over the previous year. Additionally, 74% of primary schools now offer basic sanitation facilities, and 72% provide access to drinking water.
The gross enrollment ratio for primary education stands at 78%, with 83% for boys and 72% for girls. The ratios drop to 54% for middle school, 43% for high school, and 22% for higher secondary levels.
While the report highlights progress in educational facilities and quality, it underscores the need for sustained improvements to address remaining challenges in the sector. At the report’s launch event, held by PIE in partnership with JICA and AQAL, Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Mohayuddin Din Ahmad Wani, praised PIE’s efforts. He emphasised the need to use these insights for targeted reforms aimed at improving educational outcomes.
PIE Director General Dr. Muhammad Shahid Saroya noted that educational institutions increased from 313,445 in 2021-22 to 349,909 in 2022-23. Student enrollment rose from 54.87 million to 56.07 million, and the number of teachers climbed from 2.14 million to 2.57 million.The report also reveals 26.089 million children remain out of school, with the largest numbers in Punjab (10.96 million) and Sindh (7.98 million). Out-of-school rates dropped slightly from 39% to 38% overall, with declines across primary, middle, high, and higher secondary levels. Key recommendations in the report include increased investment in education, expanding school facilities, reducing regional disparities, enhancing sanitation, and strengthening teacher training. These efforts are seen as essential for enhancing the country’s educational landscape.