Shocking Education Crisis: 63% of Pakistan's Youth Lack Formal Education

A Deepening Educational Crisis in Pakistan

New Delhi: According to the latest Census 2023 data, a staggering 63% of the youth in Pakistan and 23% of adolescents have never received formal education, underscoring a severe and ongoing crisis that marginalizes millions of young individuals, as reported by various media outlets.

The statistics reveal that out-of-school adolescents and youth, commonly referred to as OOSAY, are among the most overlooked demographics in policy discussions.

The situation is particularly dire for females, with nearly 75% of girls aged 15 to 29 having never attended school, in contrast to about 50% of boys, as highlighted by Dawn.

Experts indicate that these figures not only signify educational deficiencies but also lifelong exclusion from decent employment, healthcare, and active societal engagement.

A recent assessment by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute, in partnership with UNFPA, explored the challenges faced by OOSAY in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.

The study aimed to gather insights on the types of support these young individuals believe are necessary for re-entering education, employment, health services, and civic life.

Findings revealed that financial difficulties are the primary reason young people drop out of school, impacting nearly 75% of those surveyed.

Additional challenges include household responsibilities, work obligations, lack of nearby educational institutions, long travel distances, unsafe transportation, and societal norms, particularly affecting girls.

Early marriage and the fear of harassment further limit girls' educational opportunities, with the consequences of being out of school differing significantly between genders.

Many boys are compelled to engage in early, physically demanding, and low-paying jobs to support their families, with nearly two-thirds expressing strong pressure to earn from a young age.

Conversely, girls are often burdened with unpaid domestic and caregiving duties, with over 85% of female OOSAY dedicating most of their day to household chores, leaving little time for education or paid employment.

The study found that early marriage is prevalent, with the median age for girls being 18.

The lack of education severely hampers employment opportunities, as almost 75% of OOSAY reported having no access to paid work, particularly among women.

Those who do find work are often in unstable and informal positions, earning less than Rs25,000 a month despite long hours.

Many depend on daily wages without job security, safety measures, or opportunities to acquire valuable skills.

The study also pointed out the lack of alternative learning avenues, with over 90% of respondents stating they had never participated in any vocational or skills training program.

Health outcomes for OOSAY are equally concerning, as many suffer from malnutrition, chronic pain, and mental health issues but cannot access adequate healthcare due to costs, mobility challenges, and lack of awareness.