Pakistan is facing a severe education crisis, with over 25.37 million children aged 5-16 out of school. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in providing access to quality education across the country. Non-formal education (NFE) is emerging as a crucial resource for a significant number of children.
The recent "Pakistan's Non-Formal Education Report 2023-24," launched at Allama Iqbal Open University, provides critical insights into the state of NFE. The report was created by the Pakistan Institute of Education in partnership with the Ministry of Education and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
The Federal Education Minister emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters have worsened the challenges. He highlighted the report's importance in developing targeted policies and recognizing a previously overlooked area of the education sector.
The report suggests expanding Accelerated Learning Programs, particularly the ALP (Middle-Tech) models, which have high retention rates and offer both academic and vocational training. It also stresses the importance of addressing regional inequalities, improving adult literacy, and strengthening data collection and analysis.
Pakistan currently has 35,427 NFE centers, serving over 1.29 million learners. This represents a 20% increase in enrollment compared to the previous year.
The Federal Non-Formal Education Policy 2025 and the National Action Plan for NFE 2025 are currently being developed. The minister stressed the need for data-driven policy and a functioning Education Management Information System to improve governance and access. Plans include a standardized assessment system for NFE teachers and a comprehensive management framework to bring out-of-school children back into education.
The minister urged all stakeholders to use the report's data to improve educational planning and outreach.
Despite promises and international collaborations, Pakistan struggles to prioritize education. While officials make announcements, millions of children remain trapped in poverty and illiteracy due to neglect, mismanagement, and political indifference.
Public education in Pakistan is underfunded, poorly regulated, and often inaccessible, especially for girls and marginalized communities.
The ongoing crisis demonstrates that the failure to educate children is not just a policy issue, but a national failing, sustained by decades of state neglect.
5 Comments
Habibi
The focus on addressing the problem of out-of-school children is really valuable and I hope it will make a difference.
Answer
20% increase in enrollment? That's hardly a triumph when millions are still excluded. Where are the resources going?
The Truth
Standardized assessments for NFE teachers? Sounds like a way to further marginalize those already in a less-than-ideal situation.
ZmeeLove
The fact that the report recognizes regional inequalities is a positive step. Addressing these disparities is crucial.
Muchacho
It's great to see the government willing to take action to provide education to the children, hope it will have a positive outcome.