š University Enrollment in Pakistan Drops by 13% Amid Financial Pressures ā Economic Survey 2024ā25
The Economic Survey of Pakistan 2024ā25, released shortly before the announcement of the federal budget, has highlighted a concerning decline in higher education participation. According to the report, university enrollment across the country decreased by a significant 13%, falling from previous levels to 1.94 million students in the fiscal year 2023. This drop comes despite the presence of 269 universities and higher education institutions operating nationwide.
š Economic Challenges Blamed for Enrollment Decline
The decline in university admissions is attributed to a combination of economic and social factors. Rising inflation, limited financial aid, and the increasing cost of higher education have made it harder for studentsāparticularly those from lower-income backgroundsāto pursue university degrees. Additionally, shifting demographics, such as a decline in the college-aged population in some regions, may also be playing a role in the downward trend.
Experts also point to a lack of job opportunities post-graduation, which can disincentivize students from investing time and money in university degrees that may not offer a clear return on investment.
š Comparison with Other Education Levels
While university enrollment is facing a downturn, other levels of educationāsuch as secondary and technical educationāhave seen modest growth or stability. This divergence suggests that while access to education is improving in some areas, higher education institutions are struggling to maintain momentum.
Education analysts emphasize that this contrast underlines systemic issues in higher education, such as outdated curricula, limited infrastructure, and inadequate student support systems.
š A Slight Recovery Forecasted
Despite the discouraging statistics from FY 2023, the Economic Survey offers a cautiously optimistic outlook for FY 2024. The report projects a minor recovery, with university enrollment expected to increase by 0.8%, reaching an estimated 1.95 million students.
While this projected growth is modest, it may signal a slow return to pre-pandemic or pre-economic crisis levels. However, experts warn that without substantial policy changes and financial investments, these gains may be short-lived.
š§ Calls for Reforms and Investment
Education experts, stakeholders, and policymakers have voiced serious concerns about the long-term implications of declining university enrollment. They argue that continued underinvestment in higher education threatens the countryās ability to build a skilled workforce, innovate, and remain competitive globally.
Key recommendations include:
- Expanding scholarship and financial aid programs.
- Improving university infrastructure and faculty development.
- Enhancing public-private partnerships to create employment pathways.
- Revising outdated university curricula to align with market needs.
š Why It Matters
Higher education is a cornerstone of national development. A well-educated population not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters innovation, civic engagement, and social stability. Pakistanās ability to meet its development goals, including Vision 2025 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), depends heavily on reversing the decline in university enrollment and ensuring inclusive, equitable access to quality education.