Balochistan's Chief Critiques Misuse of Scholarships Amid Educational Crisis

Former Balochistan Chief Minister Nawab Aslam Raisani criticizes misuse of scholarships meant for Baloch students, asserting that children from Punjab are benefiting instead. He highlights ongoing issues such as forced disappearances of students and poor educational infrastructure in Balochistan, which hinder the region's overall literacy and educational attainment.

Amid worsening conditions in Balochistan, former Chief Minister Nawab Aslam Raisani recently highlighted the plight of Baloch students, The Balochistan Post reported. Raisani accused that scholarships intended for Baloch students in Gwadar are being utilized by children from Pakistan's Punjab.

Raisani asserted that Baloch students are being forcibly removed from educational institutions, and tribal leaders are incorrectly blamed for these actions. Speaking to reporters, he questioned, 'Who is really against education?' pointing out disappearances in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.

Raisani revealed that China offered 7,000 scholarships under the Gwadar projects, but only 200 were allocated to Baloch students, The Balochistan Post reported. He stressed that tribal leaders aim to uphold Baloch rights, yet students from other regions taking these scholarships deprives the Baloch community of educational opportunities.

Balochistan's schools face severe infrastructure issues, including inadequate buildings and lack of basic facilities. These problems are more acute in rural areas. Enrolment rates, especially for girls, are lower compared to other regions due to socio-cultural norms, security concerns, and economic constraints.

Overall, Balochistan's literacy rates and educational attainment lag behind other provinces, affecting higher education and employment opportunities. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)