Pakistan Alliance for Girls Education- PAGE expresses its deep concern and outrage over the recent spate of attacks on girls’ schools in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. These acts of violence, targeting institutions crucial for girls’ education and empowerment, are not only criminal but also a blatant violation of the fundamental right to education enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan.
The burning of schools in Surab district, Kalat Division, North Waziristan, and other areas not only destroys valuable infrastructure but also creates a climate of fear and intimidation. This discourages girls’ enrollment and attendance, potentially derailing years of progress towards achieving gender equality in education.
These attacks have a profound impact on girls’ education. They create an environment of fear and insecurity, discouraging families from sending their daughters to school. The destruction of educational infrastructure further disrupts access to education, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas with limited resources.
PAGE urges the Government of Pakistan to take immediate and decisive action to address this critical issue by Enhancing the Security including deployment of guards and installation of surveillance systems, to deter future attacks. Conducting thorough investigations into these attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice. This will send a strong message of deterrence and uphold the rule of law and working collaboratively with local communities to understand their concerns and build trust. This can help create a more supportive environment for girls’ education.
PAGE stands firmly committed to promoting girls’ education in Pakistan. We call upon all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the international community, to work together to ensure that all girls in Pakistan have the safe and secure environment they need to pursue an education.
We believe that education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, promoting gender equality, and fostering a more peaceful and prosperous Pakistan.
For more information and media queries, contact at: info@page.org.pk
