Out of School Children in Pakistan

Pakistan has the world’s second-largest population of out-of-school children. The number of out-of-school children in Pakistan increased from 22 million in 2017 to 26 million in 2023. Many children cannot access education, especially girls who face long distances to schools, inadequate school toilets, and restrictive social norms. With 39 percent of students out of school, Pakistan’s youth cannot reach their potential. Of the children who are in school, 64 percent of primary-grade students are not proficient in reading. If current trends persist, Pakistan risks losing the economic growth, social stability, and health benefits of an educated population. To solve this challenge, expanding access to quality education and retaining students in school is a priority for the Government of Pakistan. USAID is interested in collecting information to identify opportunities, evidence, and sustainable models to enhance education opportunities for out of school children in Pakistan, especially girls. This information may be used to support USAID’s planning and improve future development outcomes.