ISLAMABAD: A high-level meeting chaired by Shakeel Qadir Khan focused on accelerating school enrollment across Balochistan ahead of the 2026 academic year, with an emphasis on reducing dropout rates and integrating out-of-school children into the education system.

During the session, officials discussed strategies to expand access to education, particularly in rural and remote areas where enrollment gaps remain significant. The chief secretary directed authorities to implement special measures for children unable to attend school due to various socio-economic barriers.

Focus on Access, Inclusion, and Performance

A detailed briefing highlighted that the province has set a target of enrolling 261,012 children in 2026, building on last year’s successful enrollment of 237,000 students. Authorities emphasized the need to run the campaign as a structured, province-wide initiative to ensure no child is deprived of their right to education.

Officials were also briefed on current education indicators, including the number of out-of-school children and the performance of last year’s campaign. The enrollment drive aims to improve participation in underdeveloped regions and strengthen inclusion.

The chief secretary underscored coordinated efforts between district administrations, the education department, and elected representatives to meet targets, while also enhancing teacher capacity and activating educational institutions in line with the provincial leadership’s vision.