10 Million Children in Punjab are Out of School

Punjab faces a severe education crisis, with 10 million children out of school, contributing to Pakistan’s total of 25 million. The province requires 19,000 new schools by 2040 to accommodate its growing student population, but a shortage of facilities, inflation, and unemployment continue to drive high dropout rates. Girls are disproportionately affected, with 28% of those aged 5-16 out of school compared to 26% of boys.

Amid this crisis, the privatization of public schools has sparked protests from teachers and educationists. Parents, already burdened by financial struggles, are unable to afford private schooling, leaving their children with fewer educational opportunities. In rural areas, the situation is even worse, where children walk miles to reach the nearest school—if one exists at all. Many families, unable to bear the costs, are forced to pull their children out of school, prioritizing immediate survival over long-term education. The gender divide further exacerbates the issue, as girls’ education is often sacrificed in favor of household responsibilities or early marriages.

With Punjab’s youth population growing rapidly, the province will need 59 million new jobs by 2040. Without urgent intervention, the lack of education and employment opportunities will further strain the economy, deepening social inequalities. The focus must shift from outsourcing public schools to expanding educational infrastructure and making schooling accessible for all, especially girls, to ensure a sustainable future.