Pakistan’s Higher Education: A regional perspective

 

Higher education is a cornerstone of national development, driving economic growth, technological advancement, and social progress. In Pakistan, the higher education sector has witnessed significant changes in recent years, yet it lags many South Asian counterparts in key areas. South Asia, home to nearly a quarter of the world’s population, has a diverse higher education landscape. Countries like India and Sri Lanka have emerged as regional leaders, while Bangladesh and Nepal are making commendable strides. In comparison, Pakistan faces a unique set of challenges but also boasts considerable potential.

India’s higher education system is one of the largest globally, with over 1,000 universities and 42,000 colleges. The country’s emphasis is on technical education through institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). India’s gross enrollment ratio (GER) in higher education stands at 27.1%, significantly higher than Pakistan’s 10%. Sri Lanka, despite its smaller size, has achieved remarkable success in education. With a literacy rate exceeding 92%, the country’s focus on universal education and vocational training ensures a steady supply of skilled graduates. Free education up to the university level has been a key driver of this success. Bangladesh has made notable progress in expanding its higher education sector. Private universities, alongside public institutions, play a crucial role yielding GER around 17% whereas Nepal’s, a relatively small economy, is at 12%, both higher than ours.

Pakistan’s GER in higher education is among the lowest in South Asia. Factors such as financial constraints, gender disparities, and limited access to institutions contribute to this. The quality of education in Pakistan’s universities is inconsistent. While some institutions like the Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and the Aga Khan University maintain high standards, many public universities face issues of outdated curricula, lack of qualified faculty, and inadequate infrastructure. Investment in research and development remains minimal. According to UNESCO, Pakistan spends only 0.2% of its GDP on R&D, compared to India’s 0.65%. This hampers innovation and the country’s ability to address local and global challenges. A significant number of talented graduates leave Pakistan for better opportunities abroad, contributing to a brain drain that deprives the nation of skilled professionals.

Higher education in Pakistan is heavily influenced by political instability and inconsistent funding. The Higher Education Commission (HEC), responsible for regulating and funding universities, often struggles with budget cuts and bureaucratic inefficiencies. After adopting the eighteenth constitutional amendment, higher education has become a subject of provincial jurisdiction. The Sindh Government has provided better funding to higher education compared with other provinces wherein HEIs and universities are facing challenges of scarcity of public funding and financial burden is shifting to students. With over 60% of its population under the age of 30, Pakistan has a unique opportunity to harness the potential of its youth through higher education. The rise of online learning platforms and digital tools can help address accessibility issues. Initiatives like Virtual University and online programs by major institutions offer promising solutions. Partnerships with international universities can enhance the quality of education and research. Programs like the U.S.-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor aim to increase the number of Pakistani PhDs trained in the United States.

Higher education plays a pivotal role in shaping a nation’s future. For Pakistan, it can be a transformative force in several ways. Investing in higher education leads to a more skilled workforce, which in turn boosts productivity and economic output. Countries like South Korea and Singapore have demonstrated how education-driven economies can achieve rapid development. By fostering research and technological development, higher education can address challenges in agriculture, energy, healthcare, and more. Access to quality education reduces inequality and empowers marginalized communities. It provides a pathway for individuals to improve their socio-economic status. Educated citizens are more likely to contribute positively to society, reducing the risk of extremism and fostering political stability. Governments at both federal and provincial level should enhance funding for higher education to keep abreast of the pace in the region. (The writer is the Dean in UET, Lahore, tauseef.aized@uet.edu.pk.