Pakistan's Education System Plagued by Disruptions, Deepening Learning Crisis

The recurring cycle of school closures in Pakistan, ostensibly to manage crises ranging from fuel price hikes to climate change impacts, is severely damaging the educational prospects of millions of children. Dawn views this pattern not as isolated incidents but as a systemic failure that deepens an already critical learning crisis. The recent announcement of a two-week break and shift to online classes for higher education institutions, ostensibly to manage skyrocketing fuel prices triggered by the US-Israel war on Iran, is just the latest manifestation of this detrimental trend.

Our analysis reveals that these disruptions have profound and lasting consequences. For a nation where a staggering 77 percent of 10-year-olds struggle with basic literacy, missing school is not just an inconvenience; it's a compounding factor that widens existing educational disparities. The year 2023-24 alone saw climate change-driven disruptions leading to the loss of 54 percent of the normal academic year for students. This is on top of the learning loss estimated between 0.3 to 0.8 years per student due to pandemic-related closures, which also saw over 26 million students drop out, with girls disproportionately affected.

Beyond academics, the impact is gendered and deeply concerning. Schools often serve as safe havens for girls, protecting them from child marriage and child labor. When these safe spaces disappear, the risks escalate. While boys might engage in outdoor activities, girls are often burdened with household chores, increasing their vulnerability to mental distress and social isolation. The notion of remote learning as an alternative is a fallacy for many, given the lack of access and the prevalence of household distractions. At Dawn, we believe that ensuring consistent access to education is not just a matter of policy, but a fundamental right crucial for Pakistan's future development and the well-being of its children, especially its girls.