Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: Sources in the education department have revealed that 3,694 schools in Balochistan are currently non-functional, highlighting a severe crisis in the province’s education sector.
The situation is further exacerbated by the alarming statistics showing over 28 lakh (2.8 million) children out of school.
According to the latest census of 2023, there are approximately 50 lakh (5 million) school-aged children in Balochistan, but only 22 lakh (2.2 million) are enrolled in schools. Of these, 11 lakh attend government schools, 7 lakh are in private institutions, and over 3 lakh study in semi-government schools.
A senior official in the education department, who preferred not to be named due to a lack of authorization to speak to the media, stated, “The province is facing an uphill task, with nearly 28 lakh children not attending school.
The challenge is compounded by the fact that 6,995 schools in Balochistan operate with only a single teacher, and over 13,000 schools lack basic facilities such as boundary walls and washrooms. Furthermore, 1,843 schools are completely shelterless.”
The official also revealed that a campaign was launched in September last year to enroll out-of-school children, with the government aiming to ensure full enrollment by 2030. “While efforts are underway, the sheer scale of the problem requires urgent and consistent attention,” the source added.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, known for his staunch advocacy for education, reiterated the need for an education emergency. “Education is not just a right but a necessity for the development of our province. We are committed to implementing Article 25-A of the Constitution, which ensures free and compulsory education for all children,” he stated.
Bugti further emphasized the government’s resolve to address the issue of non-functional schools and absentee teachers.
“We are taking strict actions against absentee teachers, including termination, salary deductions, and disciplinary measures. Education is the backbone of any society, and we cannot compromise on the future of our children,” he added.
This crisis underscores the need for immediate action to address the infrastructural, administrative, and policy-level challenges plaguing the education sector in Balochistan.
