QUETTA: Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan has approved a series of education reforms aimed at improving access to schooling and upgrading learning facilities for thousands of students.
The decisions were taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, who reviewed progress in the education sector along with broader governance and development initiatives.
Among the key measures approved was the removal of the school uniform requirement in public primary schools. The provincial government also endorsed a gender-friendly schooling system designed to improve educational access and encourage greater enrolment.
To accommodate more students and make better use of existing infrastructure, authorities approved the introduction of a double-shift system in 900 government schools across the province.
The government also directed officials to end the traditional “taat culture,” under which children sit on floor mats during lessons, and ensure the provision of desks in all public primary schools.
As part of efforts to improve educational infrastructure, Balochistan has set a target to complete additional classrooms in 3,000 single-room schools by next year. The initiative is expected to reduce overcrowding and provide a more conducive learning environment.
Chief Minister Bugti said no child should be forced to sit on the floor to receive an education and pledged strict monitoring of school conditions through regular inspections and surprise visits.
The reforms form part of the provincial government’s wider strategy to strengthen educational standards, expand access to learning opportunities and improve school facilities across Balochistan.
