A recent survey by the Pakistan Social Standards Measurement (PSSM) has revealed a dire state of education in Punjab, with more than 7.6 million children currently out of school. The findings, highlighted in a report by 24NewsHD, expose severe deficiencies in the province’s education infrastructure and staffing.
The data shows that 7,648,272 children between the ages of 5 and 16 are not enrolled in school across Punjab. In Lahore alone, 718,199 children are out of school, reflecting systemic issues in educational access even in the provincial capital. The situation is further aggravated by widespread teacher shortages and inadequate school facilities.
One of the worst-hit institutions is Government Sheikh Sardar Girls Higher Secondary School in Garhi Shahu, where 17 teaching posts remain vacant. The shortage has disrupted the academic environment and raised concerns about the quality of education being delivered. In Raiwind, the situation is equally troubling, with 72,162 children not attending school and the same school battling with 47 unfilled teaching positions. Just 30 teachers are left to educate 820 students from grades 6 to 12, straining resources and staff.
The survey also brought to light serious gaps in infrastructure, particularly in the PP-150 constituency, where not a single girls’ school exists. This absence of educational facilities for girls underscores the gender disparities that continue to plague the province’s educational planning. Additionally, the Punjab School Education Department (SED) has confirmed that 126 boys’ schools are functioning without science teachers, critically affecting the quality of STEM education.
The report outlines an alarming teacher-to-student ratio in the province. On average, there is one teacher for every 37 students at the primary level, one for every 31 in middle school, and one for every 25 at the secondary level. In higher secondary schools, the situation is even more concerning, with one teacher responsible for 39 students.
When confronted by MPA Rahila Khadim, the Punjab Education Department acknowledged the scale of the staffing crisis but cited a government-imposed hiring freeze as the main obstacle to recruitment. Officials assured that efforts would be made to fill the vacant positions once the ban is lifted.
With millions of children missing out on education and existing schools overwhelmed by staff shortages, experts warn that immediate and decisive action is necessary to avert a long-term educational disaster. Without intervention, Punjab risks depriving an entire generation of the opportunity to learn and grow.
