ALMOST all state-run boys and girls schools in the rural areas of Balochistan have been facing a number of infra-structural as well as academic issues for a long time. From classrooms and wash- rooms to laboratories and libraries, and right down to the water and electricity supplies, everything needs official attention. More critical is the fact that school buildings happen to be in a seriously dilapidated condition that may result in a tragedy anytime.

Indeed, poor infrastructure can neither attract out-of-school children nor can educate the students already enrolled. On the other hand, due to teacher shortage and constant absenteeism, the students are taught by a variety of non-teaching staff, including peons and clerks, of schools.

Similarly, qualified individuals are ‘hired’ as ‘substitutes’ on meagre amount of money by ‘ghost’ teachers who offer a part of their salary to them. The word of the mouth suggests that the relevant government department itself is involved in such ‘alternative arrangements’.

It is only understandable that graduates of such schools fail to pursue higher studies, and are also unable to clear competitive examinations or compete in the professional fields later in their lives. This, for sure, is a national tragedy and should be treated as such.

Another alarming factor is of political interference in educational affairs owing to which a large number of school teachers get themselves transferred to cities where they take up permanent residence. First, they get government jobs on the vacant posts in schools located in the rural areas, and then they move to the cities for good. Resultantly, schools in rural areas remain closed, deserted and destroyed.

The provincial government and its various departments relevant to the matter should take notice of these issues on a war footing. To improve the quality of schools in rural Balochistan, there should be a thorough investigation to find the culprits who should be held accountable for their activities, and be given exemplary punishment.

Besides, the funding and audit system of schools should be fair, transparent and available online so that people may know when, where and how much money was spent by whom.

Moreover, it is also the responsibility of the educated youth to raise their voice about the sorry state of academic affairs in the province to save our future genera- tions. Balochistan is already the most backward province of the country, and it can no longer afford more of the same. The province should top the priority list.

Prof Fazal Tanha Gharshin
Pishin

Published in Dawn, May 2nd, 2024