Governor Balochistan highlights importance of literacy and digital skills on World Literacy Day
Quetta, Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, in his message on World Literacy Day, emphasized that education is the foundation of a brighter, empowered, and sustainable future. He said that the dream of a developed and educated Balochistan can only be realized through collective efforts of government, educational institutions, teachers, parents, civil society, and every individual in society.
The Governor noted that the province has achieved a 7 percent increase in literacy rate and successfully brought 768,000 children back to schools, which he described as a proud accomplishment of the Balochistan Education Department. He stressed that this progress demonstrates how effective policies, clear direction, and consistent effort can bring significant change in the education sector.
Jaffar Mandokhail highlighted that literacy today is no longer confined to reading and writing. In the era of artificial intelligence, digital technology, and robotics, digital literacy has become essential to keep individuals informed, skilled, and connected with the modern world. He underscored the need to equip children not only with traditional education but also with digital skills, scientific thinking, research abilities, creativity, and problem-solving capacity.
He called for a comprehensive, uniform, and forward-looking national education policy based on scientific facts and the real needs of people, rather than emotions. Such a policy, he said, would enable Pakistan and particularly Balochistan’s youth to meet the demands of the evolving global economy and technological advancements.
The Governor acknowledged that poverty and unemployment remain major barriers to education in Balochistan, forcing many talented students into labor instead of allowing them to pursue their academic potential. He stressed that literacy is not just about statistics but about empowering individuals with awareness of their rights, abilities, and opportunities.
Jaffar Mandokhail said that the vision of a literate and capable Balochistan cannot be achieved by government efforts alone. He urged international organizations, educational bodies, the private sector, and social institutions to extend their support, ensuring that the benefits of education and literacy reach every segment of society.