KPCSW forms oversight committee to strengthen girls’ education in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW) has constituted the Provincial Girls Education Oversight and Advisory Committee, a move aimed at improving policy oversight, accountability, and coordinated action for advancing girls’ education across the province.

The committee, formed in line with provincial commitments under SDG‑4 (Quality Education), is tasked with providing strategic guidance on education initiatives, reviewing enrolment and retention trends, monitoring policy commitments and budget allocations, and identifying gaps in infrastructure, teaching, safety, and learning outcomes. It will also serve as a platform to strengthen coordination among government departments, civil society, and development partners.

Civil society groups have welcomed the initiative as a timely intervention. The Rise & Shine Girls Education Leadership Network praised the leadership of KPCSW Chairperson Dr. Sumera Shams for prioritizing girls’ education. “Girls’ education is not only a right but a powerful driver of women’s empowerment, economic participation, and social transformation,” said Maham Nafees, a member of the network.

The Child Rights Movement KP described the committee as a milestone in integrating child rights and gender equality into education governance. Yumna Aftab of CRM KP noted that the platform could help address systemic barriers faced by girls, particularly those out of school, by influencing policies and budgets through a rights‑based approach.

Dr. Shams emphasized the link between girls’ education and women’s empowerment, noting that the provincial government has allocated 70 percent of its education development budget to girls’ education over the past five years. “Educating girls is one of the most effective ways to empower women, reduce inequalities, and promote inclusive development,” she said.

The committee is chaired by Dr. Shams and includes lawmakers, former legislators, civil society activists, members of KPCSW, and representatives from the Elementary and Secondary Education Department. Qamar Naseem of Blue Veins also serves on the committee, with the Secretary/Director Programs of KPCSW acting as secretary. Provision has been made for co‑opted members as required.