Education plays a decisive role in shaping the future of nations. Societies that invest in education progress socially, economically, and politically. Education transforms thinking, builds character, and enables individuals to achieve their full potential. Through education, societies learn the importance of law, justice, equality, and peaceful coexistence. History shows that nations which gained global recognition placed education at the center of their development strategies.
Education as the foundation of national progress
The Muslim world once led the world in science, medicine, mathematics, and technology. This dominance was a result of a strong commitment to knowledge and learning. However, the decline of Muslim empires began when they failed to adapt to changing educational and scientific trends. This historical lesson highlights that education is essential for the survival and progress of nations.
Class-based inequalities in Pakistan’s education system
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s education system has not achieved its fundamental objectives. One of the primary goals of education is to provide equal opportunities for social mobility. This goal can only be achieved when all individuals receive equal access to quality education. In Pakistan, education is divided along class lines. Different types of schools exist for different economic classes, each offering varying standards of education. As a result, wealth directly determines educational opportunity: the richer an individual is, the better education they can afford.
The long-term impact of unequal access to education
For children from poor backgrounds, quality education often remains out of reach. This class-based system gives unfair advantages to privileged students while placing underprivileged students at a permanent disadvantage. Over time, these inequalities shape mindsets and skills that continue to influence individuals throughout their lives.
Disparities in higher education and career outcomes
Although Pakistan has educational institutions for all classes, the quality gap is significant. Graduates from well-funded universities often secure better career opportunities, especially when supported by strong social and economic backgrounds. In contrast, students from disadvantaged backgrounds struggle to compete due to limited resources and weaker educational foundations.
Absence of a unified education system and social division
Another major purpose of education is to develop shared values and balanced thinking across society. A uniform education system helps promote national unity and social integration. In Pakistan, the absence of such a system has created deep divisions. Society is fragmented into groups with conflicting mindsets and worldviews. While political differences contribute to this division, unequal education systems play an equally important role. These different educational experiences produce citizens who think differently and find it difficult to agree on national issues.
Rising polarization and weakened social cohesion
As a result, polarization in Pakistani society has reached alarming levels. Social cohesion has weakened, and managing these divisions has become increasingly difficult. This situation reflects a serious failure of the education system.
Failure to produce innovation and scientific capacity
Education also aims to produce innovators, researchers, and critical thinkers who can anticipate future challenges and contribute to national progress. Pakistan’s heavy reliance on foreign technology demonstrates its failure to develop sufficient scientific and technological expertise at home. The education system has not successfully nurtured scientists and researchers capable of global contributions.
Gender inequality and missed educational potential
Furthermore, education should promote gender equality by empowering all individuals to participate equally in social, economic, and political life. Despite long-standing aspirations, Pakistan has not achieved this goal. Weak educational policies and poor implementation have limited opportunities for many, especially women.
Cultural and ethical erosion through weak education
Another vital function of education is the preservation of cultural values and national identity. A strong education system protects ethical traditions and cultural heritage. Unfortunately, Pakistan’s education sector has struggled to uphold these values, leading to moral and cultural erosion.
The case for declaring an education emergency
Given these challenges, Pakistan urgently needs an education emergency. The purpose of this emergency should be to reduce class-based inequalities and improve upward social mobility. It should aim to create a unified national vision while respecting diverse opinions. The focus must be on national development, social cohesion, and reduced polarization.
Enrolling out-of-school children and raising literacy
An education emergency must also prioritize enrolling all out-of-school children and increasing literacy within a clearly defined time frame. This requires a comprehensive plan supported by strict monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Building scientific capacity and ensuring gender equality
Additionally, the education system must focus on producing skilled scientists and researchers who can position Pakistan as a competitive nation in science and technology. Gender equality must be ensured, and discrimination eliminated. Cultural and ethical values should be preserved through curriculum and teaching practices.
Implementation as the ultimate test of reform
Most importantly, policies addressing these issues must be implemented effectively. Without strict execution, any declaration of an education emergency will remain symbolic and ineffective. If Pakistan fails to reform its education system, it will continue to struggle in an increasingly competitive global environment.
