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Pakistan has made notable progress in education, with the percentage of out-of-school children declining significantly in recent years. According to the latest findings in the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, the share of children not attending school has dropped from 38 percent in 2023 to 28 percent in 2025, reflecting improved enrollment efforts across the country.
The report highlights encouraging gains among both boys and girls. The proportion of boys outside the education system decreased from 35 percent to 25 percent, while the rate among girls fell from 42 percent to 31 percent. Although the gap between boys and girls has narrowed, female education continues to face challenges in several regions, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
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Provincial data also shows positive trends. Punjab recorded one of the greatest improvements, reducing its out-of-school child rate to 21 percent. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also saw progress, while Sindh reported a steady decline. The most significant improvement came from Balochistan, where the percentage of out-of-school children dropped substantially, indicating better access to educational opportunities.
Education experts say government initiatives, increased parental awareness, expanded school infrastructure, and support programs for low-income families have contributed to higher enrollment rates. Efforts to improve girls’ education, including scholarships and community-based programs, have also played an important role.
Despite these achievements, Pakistan still faces a major challenge. Millions of children remain outside classrooms, limiting their future opportunities and affecting the country’s long-term economic growth. Experts emphasize that continued investment in schools, teacher training, digital learning resources, and education funding will be essential to sustain progress.
The latest figures provide hope that Pakistan is moving in the right direction. However, maintaining this momentum will require coordinated efforts from federal and provincial governments, education authorities, development partners, and local communities. Expanding access to quality education remains one of the country’s most important priorities, especially as demand for skilled and educated youth continues to grow.
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The decline in out-of-school children represents a positive step forward. Still, stakeholders agree that more work is needed to ensure every child in Pakistan has the opportunity to attend school and build a better future.