ISLAMABAD: In their messages on International Literacy Day, the president and prime minister have highlighted the challenge of millions of out-of-school children and vowed to increase the literacy rate to “transform” Pakistan.

According to the detailed results of the 7th Population and Housing Census conducted last year, around 25.37m children between the ages of five and 16 are currently out of school. More than 20.03m never went to school, while over 5.34m dropped out at some stage.

While referring to this number, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recalled the ‘Education Emergency’ he proclaimed earlier this year to enrol the out-of-school children.

In May, the PM announced the emergency to “handle the challenge of 26m out-of-school children”.

International Literacy Day is observed on September 8 to remind policymakers, practitioners, and the public of the critical importance of literacy for creating a more literate, just, peaceful, and sustainable society.

PM, president link provision of quality education to prosperity; Shehbaz says tech skills must for digital age

“As we observe International Literacy Day, we are reminded of the profound significance of literacy as a fundamental human right and an essential element of dignity,” the PM said in his message.

He added that literacy is not only the ability to read and write; rather, it is a “gateway to empowerment, economic opportunity, and active participation in society”.

“The government prioritises providing quality education to all children of school-going age and ensuring that our citizens, regardless of age, have access to life skills education.”

He recalled several steps taken to increase enrolment and cut the dropout rate, including free meals and scholarships.

PM Shehbaz emphasised the need to integrate technology into the curriculum and said his government is committed to implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure that the youth is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy.

He said the private sector and civil society can play a critical role in overhauling the education system. “By forging effective partnerships, we can link education with employment and self-employment opportunities, creating a more robust and inclusive workforce.”

“Let us work together, as a nation, to promote literacy and education for all. Together, we can build a brighter future for our children and our country.”

‘Educated and prosperous nation’

In his message, President Zardari said every Pakistani should have the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to a more educated, inclusive and prosperous nation.

He also recalled that a ‘National Educational Emergency’ has already been imposed in Pakistan to educate out-of-school children and around 70m adults.

He listed several government initiatives to promote literacy, including the ‘Each One Teach One’ programme, which calls on every literate citizen to teach at least one illiterate person.

The initiative has been launched by the National Commission for Human Development under the Prime Minister’s Roshan Pakistan Literacy Drive.

The government is also providing cash transfers up to the higher secondary level through Benazir Taleemi Wazaif for educating underprivileged children, the president said, adding stipends up to Rs4,000 for boys and Rs4,500 for girls are being offered in every district.

Currently, 9.7m children are benefiting from this programme.

Around 102,000 scholarships have also been provided to students from low-income families to ensure their access to higher education, Mr Zardari said.

“Each of us has a vital role in shaping the future of our beloved country. May our collective efforts bring about lasting peace, mutual understanding, and a brighter future for all.”

Published in Dawn, September 9th, 2024