Islamabad, Oct 23: Contrary to popular belief, most parents in Pakistan understand the need to educate their children, and are willing to do so, if they are assured certain facilities.

This was said by Mr Francesco d’Ovidio, Director of International Labour Organisation (ILO) while addressing the seminar “Girls’ right to education” at Crown Hotel Plaza here on Tuesday.

The seminar organised by UNGEI (UN Girls’ Education Initiative), was presided over by Senator Farah Aqil, and included UNESCO representative Dr Kozue Kay Nagata and UN Resident Coordinator Mr Timo Pakkala.

Mr Francesco presented a succinct summary of the problems faced by children, especially females, in acquiring an education. He said teachers had low-wages and lacked social protection, because of which the standard of education was low.

He dispelled the notion that parents lacked the will to educate children, saying that if security and transport issues were resolved, parents would be willing to educate their children.—Asad Najeeb