KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has congratulated teachers across the country on World Teachers’ Day, being observed on Monday, and paid tribute to their services.

According to a press release issued here on Sunday, the PPP chairman also called for a fair increase in salaries for teachers — particularly those at private institutions — along with job security and an effective mechanism to ensure their basic rights.

In his message, he said that the hard work and sacrifices of teachers form the foundation of Pakistan’s bright future.

“A teacher does not merely teach a curriculum — they instil awareness, the courage to ask questions and the ability to build a better society in their students,” he said.

He stressed that it was the state’s responsibility to provide teachers with respect, adequate facilities, professional freedom and a conducive environment. “Investing in quality education and the welfare of teachers is, in effect, an investment in the country’s future.”

Mr Bhutto-Zardari said education has always been a core priority for the PPP.

“The 1973 Constitution, framed under Quaid-i-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, declared education a fundamental right, while Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s vision was to provide equal, quality education to every child without discrimination. Establishing and expanding educational institutions has remained a priority throughout every PPP government,” he pointed out.

He said his party holds the services and struggles of teachers in high regard, and that the PPP will continue to lead the way in securing teachers’ rights, resolving their issues and restoring their professional dignity.

Published in Dawn, October 5th, 2026