World Bank approves $47.9 million grant to boost education in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD – The World Bank has approved a $47.9 million grant for education in Pakistan, aiming to strengthen Punjab’s education sector and ensure access to quality schooling for millions of children.
According to the World Bank’s official statement, the funds will be directed towards increasing student enrollment in primary schools, improving facilities, and empowering communities to actively participate in the education system.
Under this initiative, more than 4 million children will benefit from enhanced facilities and learning opportunities. Out of these, approximately 80,000 out-of-school children will be enrolled, while over 3 million students in government schools, 850,000 in non-formal education programs, and 140,000 differently-abled children in special education institutions will gain direct benefits.
World Bank Task Team Leader Izza Farrakh highlighted that the project is in line with Punjab’s education reform agenda. The grant is expected to strengthen governance, improve coordination between departments, and build stronger partnerships with local communities to support long-term sustainable change in the sector.
Pakistan has a longstanding partnership with the World Bank, being a member since 1950. Over the decades, the country has received more than $48.3 billion in assistance. At present, Pakistan’s World Bank portfolio includes 54 active projects worth $15.7 billion, covering multiple sectors from education and health to infrastructure and energy.
Education remains one of the most pressing challenges in Pakistan, where millions of children remain out of school, particularly in rural areas. Experts believe that this grant could play a crucial role in reducing dropout rates, increasing inclusivity for differently-abled children, and bridging the urban-rural education gap.
The approval of the World Bank grant for education in Pakistan comes at a time when the government is under increasing pressure to improve literacy rates and strengthen human capital development for future economic growth.
Stay updated with MegaNews.tv for the latest developments on Pakistan’s education reforms, international aid, and progress in literacy initiatives.
