Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s FY 2024–25 Education Budget: A Strategic Investment in Human Capital

In the fiscal year 2024–25, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has unveiled a comprehensive budget with a total outlay of Rs1,754 billion. A significant portion of this budget, amounting to Rs362.68 billion, is allocated to the education sector, reflecting a 13% increase from the previous fiscal year. This strategic investment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and accessibility across the province.

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Breakdown of Education Sector Allocation

1. Elementary and Secondary Education: Rs326.86 billion is earmarked for elementary and secondary education. This allocation aims to address foundational educational needs and improve literacy rates.

2. Higher Education: Rs35.82 billion is designated for higher education, marking an 11% increase from the previous year. The funds will facilitate the establishment of 30 new degree colleges and over 350 schools operating in rented buildings, thereby expanding access to tertiary education.

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Infrastructure Development and Quality Enhancement

Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has emphasized the government’s priority to improve school infrastructure. Initiatives include:

Resource Allocation: Provision of necessary resources to enhance school facilities.

Data Collection: Comprehensive assessment of missing facilities in schools to inform targeted interventions.

Immediate Improvements: Supply of essential furniture, such as desks and chairs, to schools lacking these basic amenities.

Monitoring and Accountability: Strict oversight of teacher attendance and performance, with rewards for high-performing schools and educators.

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Complementary Social Programs

The education budget is complemented by social initiatives aimed at youth empowerment:

Ehsaas Employment, Youth, and Skills Programs: Rs12 billion is allocated to these programs, targeting the creation of 100,000 job opportunities for the province’s youth.

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Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite the substantial investment, challenges persist:

Infrastructure Gaps: Many schools still operate without adequate facilities, impacting the quality of education.

Teacher Shortages: Recruitment and retention of qualified teachers remain a concern, particularly in remote areas.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Ensuring effective implementation of programs requires robust monitoring mechanisms.

The government’s proactive approach, including increased budgetary allocations and infrastructure development, indicates a strong commitment to overcoming these challenges and advancing the province’s educational landscape.

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In conclusion, the KP government’s FY 2024–25 budget reflects a strategic focus on education as a catalyst for socio-economic development. By allocating significant resources to both foundational and higher education, alongside complementary social programs, the province aims to build a robust human cap

ital base to drive future growth and prosperity.

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