The education crisis in Pakistan
Did you know that Pakistan has the second highest number of out-of-school children in the world—over 25 million?
That’s one of the largest education gaps in the world. Even for those who do attend school, learning is not guaranteed. National assessments show that nearly 9 out of 10 Grade 3 students cannot read at grade level or perform basic math, and many children struggle to build foundational skills in science and critical thinking.
Girls are most at risk
This crisis hits girls hardest. In many communities, they face additional barriers: unsafe commutes to school, early marriage pressures, and cultural resistance to their education.
Even when they enroll, girls are more likely to drop out early, limiting their path to independence, well-being, and opportunity.
Barriers go beyond access
The problem isn’t just getting children into school, it’s ensuring they learn once they are there. Many public schools in Pakistan face severe resource gaps: limited learning materials, unreliable electricity, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate sanitation.
Teachers often lack the tools and support they need for effective teaching. Economic hardship, political instability, and climate-related disasters like floods and heatwaves further disrupt learning across entire regions.
Barriers go beyond access
The problem isn’t just getting children into school, it’s ensuring they learn once they are there. Many public schools in Pakistan face severe resource gaps: limited learning materials, unreliable electricity, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate sanitation.
Teachers often lack the tools and support they need for effective teaching. Economic hardship, political instability, and climate-related disasters like floods and heatwaves further disrupt learning across entire regions.
