Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Declares Education Emergency on International Literacy Day

Photo : Reuters

In a decisive move to address the educational challenges facing Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared an education emergency on International Literacy Day, September 8, 2024. The announcement targets the approximately 26 million children currently out of school in the country, with a focus on significantly improving literacy rates and educational access.

During his address, Sharif urged both the private sector and civil society organizations to collaborate with the government in this effort. He emphasized the critical role of education in national development, stating, “We have declared an educational emergency across the country, launched an enrolment campaign for students, and initiated midday meals for children in schools.” He further highlighted that literacy is not just about reading and writing but serves as a “gateway to empowerment, economic opportunities, and active participation in society.”

The Prime Minister detailed several new initiatives aimed at reducing dropout rates and increasing school attendance. These include scholarships and incentives designed to keep students engaged in their education. Sharif also stressed the importance of integrating technology into the educational system to prepare students for the digital economy.

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In his address, Sharif reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the education agenda, stating, “We will tackle the challenge of the 26 million out-of-school children with determination. The way we addressed educational issues in Punjab, we will now address them nationwide.” This pledge comes after an earlier declaration of an education emergency in May 2024, where Sharif emphasized the need for substantial financial resources to overcome the educational challenges and ensure every child has access to quality education.

The Prime Minister's call to action comes as part of broader efforts to align Pakistan’s educational system with global standards. He stressed the need for effective partnerships between the government, private sector, and civil society to link education with employment and self-employment opportunities, thereby creating a more inclusive workforce.

International Literacy Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in global literacy. UNESCO has highlighted that a significant barrier to progress remains the lack of access to education, with three out of four children in developing countries unable to read or comprehend basic texts by age 10. Globally, there are still 754 million illiterate adults, two-thirds of whom are women.

The Prime Minister’s ambitious plan is set to make a profound impact on Pakistan’s education landscape, aiming to create a more literate and equitable society for all.

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