The literacy rate in Pakistan is 62.3%, according to the 2017-18 Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey. This means that approximately 62.3% of the Pakistani population aged 10 years and above can read and write.
While this figure is a significant improvement from previous decades, it still indicates that a considerable portion of the population lacks basic education.
Here are some factors contributing to the literacy rate in Pakistan:
- Gender disparity: The literacy rate for men is much higher than for women, highlighting the need for increased access to education for girls.
- Rural-urban divide: Literacy rates are generally higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
- Poverty: Poverty often limits access to education, especially for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Despite these challenges, Pakistan has made significant progress in expanding education access. The government has implemented various initiatives to promote literacy, including:
- Free and compulsory education: The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees free and compulsory education for all children aged 5 to 16 years.
- Expansion of schools: The government has been constructing new schools and expanding existing ones to improve access to education.
- Teacher training programs: The government is investing in training and development programs for teachers to improve the quality of education.
The literacy rate in Pakistan is expected to continue improving in the coming years as the government continues to invest in education and promote access for all.
