Education system in pakistan essay with proper discussion on issues, problems with solutions and challenges and prospective of education

Introduction: 

Pakistan is a developing country, and education is the most critical sector for its progress. Unfortunately, the education system in Pakistan faces many challenges that hinder its development. The current education system in Pakistan is not only inadequate but also
inefficient in many ways.

Primary Education: 

Primary education is the most important and initial stage of formal education, and it is
the foundation for a student’s future academic career success. Primary education is compulsory in Pakistan and is free for all children aged 7 to 16. However, many children are absent from school, particularly in rural areas, due to poverty, social and cultural barriers, and a lack of quality education facilities. Pakistan’s primary education curriculum is out of date, and it does not prepare incoming students for the challenges of the modern world.

Secondary Education: 

Secondary education in Pakistan is provided by both public and private institutions and lasts from grade 6 to grade 10. The government prescribes the secondary education curriculum, which includes subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Islamic Studies. However, education quality is poor, and the curriculum is not updated on a regular basis to keep up with changing times.

Higher Education: 

Well-known universities and degree-granting institutions provide higher education in Pakistan. Higher education is of poor quality, and there is a lack of research and innovation. The curriculum of the higher education system is also out of date, and it does not prepare students for the challenges of the modern world.

Challenges in Education System: 

Pakistan’s education system faces numerous challenges, including poor educational quality, a lack of infrastructure, insufficient funding, outdated curriculum, and insufficient teacher training. The gender gap in education is also a major issue, with girls facing numerous social and cultural barriers to education.

Types of education system in Pakistan

Pakistan has a variety of educational systems, each with its own set of characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. I will discuss the four major types of education systems in Pakistan in this essay.

System of Formal Education: The formal education system, which is provided by schools and colleges, is the most widely used in Pakistan. The government recognises this system, which has a structured curriculum. Formal education is systematic, and students are evaluated through various tests and examinations. This system is rigidly structured, with little room for creativity and innovation.

2.      Informal Education System: In Pakistan, informal education is an alternative to formal education. This system lacks structure and is not governed by the government. Non-formal schools, madrassas, and vocational training institutes are included. Informal education is typically less expensive than formal education, and it is available to those who cannot afford formal school fees. However, education quality is not standardised, and there is no guarantee of student progress.

3.      

      Distance Learning: Pakistan, the distance learning system is gaining popularity. It is a type of education in which students learn from a distance, usually via the internet. This system is adaptable and user-friendly, allowing students to learn at their own pace. However, because there is little interaction between the teacher and the students, the quality of education may suffer.

4.    

         Homeschooling: Pakistan, homeschooling is a relatively new concept in which parents take responsibility for their child’s education. The government does not recognise this system, and there are no regulations or standards in place. Homeschooling is typically done by parents who strongly believe in a particular educational philosophy or religion. The parent’s ability to teach determines the quality of education, and there is little interaction with other students, which may affect the child’s social development.

Factors influencing Pakistan’s education system

Several factors impede Pakistan’s educational system’s progress and development. In this essay, I will discuss some of the major factors that influence Pakistan’s educational system.

Poverty: Poverty is a significant factor influencing education in Pakistan. Children from low-income families cannot afford formal school fees and frequently drop out to work and contribute to the family income. Poverty also has an impact on educational quality because schools in low-income areas lack proper infrastructure, trained teachers, and basic resources such as textbooks and equipment.

Gender Discrimination: Gender discrimination is a major factor influencing education in Pakistan. In Pakistan, cultural and social norms frequently discourage girls from attending school, and many parents do not believe that education is necessary for their daughters. Girls are also subjected to harassment and violence on their way to school, which frequently leads to their dropping out.

Inadequate Infrastructure: Pakistan’s education system suffers from a lack of infrastructure. Many schools lack basic amenities such as classrooms, restrooms, libraries, and laboratories. The lack of basic school facilities makes learning difficult and ineffective.

Teacher Shortage: Pakistan’s education system is also facing a teacher shortage, particularly in underserved areas. Many teachers are untrained and lack the qualifications required to teach effectively. A lack of qualified teachers leads to lower educational quality and fewer learning opportunities for students.

Political Instability: Pakistan’s political instability has an impact on the education system. The frequent changes in government and policies have an impact on the continuity of the education system, and many initiatives are not fully implemented or are halted for political reasons.

Pakistan’s educational system policy

The education system in Pakistan is governed by a number of government policies. In this essay, I will discuss the major policies that have been implemented to improve Pakistan’s education system.

The 2017 National Education Policy (NEP): The National Education Policy 2017 is a complete policy targeted at enhancing Pakistan’s educational standards. Its goals are to increase educational availability, improve educational standards, and promote equity and inclusion. The strategy aims to increase participation, enhance educational quality, and narrow the educational gender disparity.

ESR (Education Sector Reforms) 2001-2006: The Education Sector Reforms initiative aimed to enhance Pakistan’s educational system by emphasising access, quality, relevance, and administration. The program’s goals included increasing enrollment, closing the gender disparity, and improving educational standards. It also sought to enhance school management and governance while increasing community involvement.

National Education Plan of Action (NPA) 2016-2025: The National Plan of Action for Education is a ten-year strategy to improve Pakistan’s school system. The plan’s goals include increasing enrollment, improving educational standards, and closing the gender disparity. It also emphasises teacher instruction and capacity development, as well as the use of technology in education.

4.
Punjab Education Sector Reforms
(PESR) 2018-2022: The Punjab Education Sector Reforms initiative aims to better the education system in Pakistan’s Punjab province. The initiative seeks to enhance school access, quality, and governance. It seeks to boost enrollment, close the gender gap, and enhance educational standards. The initiative also emphasises teacher training and capacity development, infrastructure improvement, and greater community involvement.