It is an undeniable fact that education is the only door to prosperity and success. A nation well-equipped with education remains undefeated in any circumstances. As John Dewey rightly said that " Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself." It is very much important for every individual and nation to get quality education. Education is the only way out to resolve national and international disputes.

Balochistan is recorded to be the largest province of Pakistan in terms of territory which covers around 44% of entire Pakistan. In fact, Balochistan is also the richest province in terms of natural resources and minerals. But it is quite distressing that Balochistan is made deprived of all the basic needs of life including education.

According to statistics, currently, less or more than 13000 schools are present in Balochistan, out of which 40% lack washrooms, 30% are deprived of electricity facilities, and 28% suffer from hygienic water shortage. Despite being the richest province of Pakistan, Balochistan's education standard is quite poor and disappointing. It's incredible that province students are not provided with all the necessary facilities for getting a quality education. Moreover, it's very much alarming that out of school children ratio is in the millions. According to UNICEF, 60-70 percent of children in Balochistan are out of school, yet the government of Balochistan is in deep sleep.

Balochistan government unveiled a budget for the fiscal year 2022-23 with a total outlay of more than RS 612 billion, out of that RS 83 billion is proposed for education which is a tiny amount for dwindling education in Balochistan. In 2010, Article 25-A of the Pakistani constitution was created, which states that " The state shall provide free and compulsory education to all children of the age of five to sixteen years in such manner as may be determined by law." But it hurts to mention that such practical steps should be more productively taken for Balochistan children. Apart from that, fund embezzlement is widespread, especially in Balochistan. Most of the concerned officials are looting the budget allocated for education with both hands. As a result, most of the schools have no boundaries, and classrooms are partially destroyed and are not repaired for decades, which can cause havoc soon or later.

Lastly, the Chief Ministry of Balochistan, the education minister, and other all concerns are humbly requested to pay special attention to our education and take strong actions to make Balochistan a highly educated province. Because now it's time to provide standard education to every individual in the province both male and female. As Benjamin Franklin correctly quoted " An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."

 

By: Faris Sayad

Dagarikahn, Kech