Education is the backbone of any nation and, without it‚ national development is not possible? However‚ millions of children are denied this right? In Pakistan, over 25 million children aged 5 to 16 years are out of school‚ the second highest number of out of school children in the world? The country spends only around 1?5 per cent of its GDP on education‚ which is much lower than 4.0-6.0 per cent recommended by experts. This creates a poorly educated population leading to unemployment‚ poverty and slower economic growth? However‚ a more educated population creates greater stability‚ more innovations and more productivity? This is an important reason a country with an educated population invests in education?
The government must also increase its spending on education‚ upgrade school infrastructure and employ properly trained teachers. More focus should also be placed on girls’ education and marginalised groups ? Education is not an expense‚ it is an investment in Pakistan’s future?
Muqadas Salamat
Ghotki
