Girls Education Report Pakistan Shows Record Rise in Completion Rate
The Girls Education Report Pakistan reveals a major shift in the country’s learning landscape. The Federal Ministry of Education and Professional Training released the findings for 2023-24. Officials say girls now complete primary school at record levels.
Federal Minister Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui launched the report at the Pakistan Institute of Education. He described the progress as a strong return on public investment. As a result, policymakers see new momentum in the sector.
Completion Rates and Academic Gains Rise
The report shows that the primary completion rate for girls increased from 75% to 89%. This jump reflects better school infrastructure and improved access. Today, 96% of schools operate in permanent buildings.
In addition, 92% of institutions offer functional toilets. About 82% provide clean drinking water. However, malnutrition still affects students’ physical growth and remains a policy concern.
Data from the National Achievement Test 2023 highlights strong academic performance. Girls scored higher than boys in English, Urdu or Sindhi, and Mathematics. In Grade 8, they also led in Science and Math. Despite these gains, a gap persists in employment. Women now enroll in universities at rates close to men. Yet only 24% participate in the labor force. The minister called this gap a waste of human capital.
Funding and Access Challenges Persist
The report also identifies serious structural challenges. Around 26.2 million children remain out of school, including 13.4 million girls. Therefore, access remains uneven across regions. Moreover, the education budget share fell from 13% to 11%. Authorities spend 94% of funds on salaries, leaving little for development. Only 19% of schools have digital tools.
While 23% of schools installed ramps, assistive materials remain limited. Minister of State Wajiha Qamar said the ministry is preparing a targeted action plan. Leaders agree that increased funding and modernization will help girls fully realize their potential.
