ISLAMABAD: A recent report by the Institute of Social and Policy Sciences (I-SAPS) has exposed serious gaps in Pakistan’s education system.
Despite the government’s declared “educational emergency,” families are now bearing the majority of education expenses, while 25 million children remain out of school.
The report shows that total spending on education in Pakistan has reached Rs. 500 billion, but for the first time in history, household expenditures have surpassed government investment. Families contribute Rs. 280 billion toward education, while the government provides Rs. 220 billion—meaning 56% of education costs are borne by households and only 44% by the state.
Parents are also spending heavily on private schooling and supplementary education: Rs. 1,310 billion on private school fees, Rs. 613 billion on tuition and coaching, and Rs. 878 billion on other personal education-related expenses.
Dr. Salman Humayun, Executive Director of I-SAPS, warned that when household spending exceeds government investment, it signals a serious equity crisis. World Bank Senior Education Specialist Aza Farooq noted that the growth of private schools reflects families’ choice to move away from the public education system.
Ahmed Ali, Director of Programs at I-SAPS, said the rising private education costs send a clear policy message: the government must strengthen public schools, ensure effective use of resources, and protect equal access to education—especially for girls and disadvantaged groups.
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