THE contribution of women from all walks of life cannot be overstated. However, many of them, especially those living in remote areas, find it difficult to acquire education and play an effective role in society.

The patriarchal system in such areas is the biggest obstacle, as even parents are reluctant to send their daughters to schools and colleges due to cultural norms.

According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund’s (Unicef) estimates, of the 8.6 million girls enrolled at primary level in Pakistani schools, only 2.8m go on to acquire secondary education.

The remaining 5.8m girls do not continue their education because of various domestic problems. Many of them are compelled to leave their education against their will and are forced into marriages.

Education is the basic right of every individual. Pakistan is currently ranked 153rd out of 156 by the Global Gender Gap Report. Around 53.6 per cent women in the country are deprived of education, training and employment, which is in stark contrast to only 7.4pc men.

The government and all other stakeholders should take concrete measures to increase women’s literacy rate in the country and break the barriers that come in its way.

Education empowers women. It helps them have some control over domestic violence, and to make informed decisions. The government should support the cause and launch programmes and training centres for girls’ education, especially in remaote, backward areas of the country.

Usama Bin Rafiq
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2021