The education sector in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has been undergoing a severe crisis over the past two decades. Poor policymaking, economic deprivations and governance issues have all contributed to a decline in educational standards, both on higher and elementary levels, leading to increased dropout rates in elementary schools and extensive enrollment decline in universities across KP.
According to Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) survey (2021), over 4.7 million children in KP are currently out of school. This situation is especially grave for girls and children from the merged tribal districts, further entrenching cycles of poverty and hindering progress. This decline isn’t confined to the elementary level; higher education is also grappling with the challenges of low enrollment.
The largest and oldest University of Peshawar (UoP) finds itself amidst substantial decline in students’ enrollment for its Bachelor of Science (BS) programs. This unsettling trend not only raises questions about UoP’s financial health but also points towards broader challenges faced by higher education in the province. The University of Peshawar, with a capacity to admit 6,000 students annually across its 53 departments, has witnessed a significant 50% decline in admissions this year. Merely over 2,800 aspiring students chose to enrol in its BS program, marking a stark contrast to the figures from the previous academic year (2023).
Reports suggest that 10 out of the 53 departments of the university have failed to admit even a single student. The financial implications of this trend are expected to be significant, with an estimated annual loss of 18 crore rupees, which will further deteriorate university’s existing financial woes.
UoP’s predicament is not an isolated case but a symptom of a broader ailment afflicting the higher education in the province. Reports indicate that several other universities in KP are also facing the same dilemma.
Among various reasons behind this downturn, a significant increase in the per semester fee is the major contributing factor which has recently surged from rupees 52000 to 72000, potentially acting as a deterrent for economically disadvantaged aspiring students. Poverty, inflation and economic uncertainties in the province discourage prospective applicants from pursuing higher education. Another factor is the implementation of BS programs in degree colleges with a fixed fee of PKR 4,500/ semester. This affordability factor in local colleges also draws students away from the universities, opting for more economical educational alternatives.
The financial implications of declining enrollments are not limited to individual institutions but extend to the overall health of the higher education sector in KP. The annual loss of millions of rupees for each affected institution exacerbates financial deficits, limiting their capacity to provide quality education and invest in essential infrastructure and faculty development.
While the current scenario presents formidable challenges, it also brings opportunities for higher education institutions to introspect, innovate, and emerge stronger to meet the educational needs of the diverse and dynamic student population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Now, let’s explore the more severe crisis of the elementary education sector in KP – the issue of dropouts or out-of-school children. Districts like Kolai Palas, Upper Kohistan, Torghar, and Lakki Marwat, stand at the forefront of this educational crisis. Similarly, the merged districts, especially North Waziristan and Bajaur face the same challenge emphasizing the urgent need for intervention.
To cope with the challenges, KP Education Department has formulated comprehensive strategies including establishing new schools, implementing alternate learning pathways (ALP) and focusing on Early Child Education (ECE) policies. Moreover, initiatives like teacher training programs, literacy centres and scholarship disbursements are also aimed at enhancing educational access and quality.
The government’s commitment towards modernizing education infrastructure is evident through initiatives like transitioning schools to solar energy and investing in digital skills training. Plans to provide free textbooks and explore digital learning platforms underscore a commitment to inclusive and accessible education. Initiatives like the Merit and Need-Based Scholarship Program have enabled deserving students to pursue higher education.
Moreover, community engagement programs have empowered local stakeholders to play an active role in improving educational outcomes. Through initiatives like parent-teacher associations and community-led education projects, KP is cultivating an ownership culture and accountability in its education sector.
While progress has been made, this challenge persists due to underdeveloped infrastructure, shortages of teachers and cultural divides. Additionally, the COVID-19 crisis has made current inequalities even worse, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities and widening the education gap.
Sustained investment and innovative approaches are required to address these challenges. Leveraging technology, enhancing teacher training programs, and strengthening partnerships with the private sector can help KP build a resilient and inclusive education system.