Proposals made for budget to advance girls’ education

PESHAWAR: The Rise and Shine Girls Education Leadership Network, a group of secondary school girls advocating for transformative change in education, on Tuesday presented a set of budget recommendations aimed at improving girls’ education across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

A press release said in a policy dialogue, the network shared proposals for the upcoming Annual Development Programme (ADP) 2025-2026 with provincial leaders, including Faisal Khan Tarakai, Minister for Elementary and Secondary Education; Syed Qasim Ali Shah, Minister for Social Welfare and Women Development; Taj Mohammad and Chairman of the KP Assembly’s Standing Committee on Education.

Calling for the continuation of a 70:30 spending ratio in favour of girls’ education, the young leaders advocated for measures to curb dropout rates and expand access to secondary education.

The proposals included the construction of 100 new schools for Classes 6-12 in underserved areas, expansion of model schools, provision of free educational supplies in the merged districts, and rehabilitation of schools impacted by conflict or natural disasters. They also highlighted the need for adolescent-focused initiatives, recommending the integration of hygiene management programmes in secondary schools.

The network called for a 20pc increase in the education development budget to fund these initiatives and ensure equitable learning opportunities.

Speaking for the network, members Komal Dilar, Linta, and Maham Nafes stated: “Financing girls’ education is an investment in the future of Pakistan. Educated girls uplift families, strengthen communities, and drive economic growth. The province must ensure no girl is left behind.”

Minister Faisal Khan Tarakai praised the network’s vision, saying: “Your voice matters. The recommendations presented today are not only relevant-they are timely and crucial. The government stands with you in the mission to improve girls’ access to education.”

Qamar Naseem, Programme Manager at Blue Veins and Education Champion with the Pakistan Education Champions Network, also voiced his support: “Integrating girls’ voices in the planning and financing of education is not just important-it is essential. Their insights must guide how we prioritize, allocate, and implement budgets that truly serve every girl.”