WNAM REPORT; Convenor of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR) and Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Science & Technology, Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan, MNA, met with the Minister for Federal Education & Professional Training, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, in Islamabad today. During the meeting, Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan briefed the Federal Minister on the successful provincial consultation sessions conducted by the PCCR. These sessions aimed to establish provincial child rights caucuses, recognizing that child rights are a provincial subject and that it is essential to identify the unique contributing factors in each province to effectively address the nationwide issue of Out-of-School Children (OOSC). She emphasized that the meetings and consultations centered on findings from primary research into the demographics of OOSC, exploring the reasons behind their growing numbers. The objective was to develop tailored strategies that align with the distinct socio-economic realities of each province and their respective regions, all of which contribute to the broader national challenge. Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan highlighted common factors behind the OOSC crisis, including poverty, limited access to schools, inadequate school infrastructure, a shortage of teachers, and migration.
In addition, both sides discussed the data dynamics, drawing on reasons and feedback gathered from the provinces. It was noted that the situation varies significantly from province to province. Special attention must also be given to slum areas, critical in understanding the broader educational landscape. There is a pressing need to segregate data based on the rural-urban divide, as the presence of out-of-school children in slum areas is particularly alarming. The role of non-formal schools in Islamabad was highlighted as important in addressing these challenges. Additionally, the perceived value of education in various communities was identified as a significant barrier to enrollment and retention. The issues of ghost teachers and ghost schools were also raised as serious concerns. While poverty is a well-understood reason for children being out of school, the question was raised whether the same justification can be extended to absentee teachers. Finally, it was emphasized that a comparative analysis with other countries would provide valuable insights into best practices and potential solutions.
The Minister for Federal Education applauded the contributions and unwavering commitment of the PCCR in promoting child rights in general, and education in particular. He further assured the Ministry’s full support in reviewing and finalizing the report compiled by the PCCR, which is based on qualitative data collected on various issues contributing to the problem of out-of-school children (OOSC). Dr. Nikhat Shakeel Khan expressed her sincere gratitude to the Minister for his support and commitment, and formally extended an invitation for him to attend and participate in the Closing Ceremony of the Project on the National Education Emergency addressing Out-of-School Children (OOSC). The meeting was also attended by the Officers of the Ministry of Federal Education & Professional Training and the National Assembly Secretariat.
