PESHAWAR: Ahead of the upcoming provincial budget for 2026 to 2027, girl leaders from the Rise and Shine Girls’ Education Leadership Network have called for at least a 25 per cent increase in the education budget, with a strong focus on girls’ secondary education.
A press release said on Wednesday the demand was made during a leadership and advocacy workshop organized by Blue Veins with the support of Malala Fund. The workshop brought together young girl leaders to build their understanding of education systems, public budgeting and civic engagement, enabling them to effectively advocate for their right to education.
Participants highlighted key barriers affecting girls’ education, including a lack of adequate classrooms, weak teacher accountability, limited access to safe transportation, absence of functional laboratories and inadequate water, sanitation, and menstrual hygiene facilities in schools. They also stressed the need for stipends, learning materials and safe school environments to ensure retention and completion.
According to the Digital Population Census 2023, 4.9 million children remain out of school in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, of which 2.9 million are girls, underscoring the urgent need for increased and targeted public investment.Ayesha Mir, a member of the network, said, “We are not just students, we are leaders. Investing in girls’ education is investing in the future of our communities.”
