The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has advised Pakistan to adopt India's ULLAS scheme to address its failing education system and enhance training for its citizens, according to a media report.
The recommendation came after Pakistan requested financial aid to improve its education system and provide education for all out-of-school children, The Express Tribune reported.
The Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society (ULLAS) was launched by the Indian government in July last year to support non-literates and adults who missed out on formal schooling. The ADB has suggested that Pakistan implement a strategic, multi-stakeholder approach, drawing on international best practices, such as India's ULLAS scheme.
The ADB highlighted that ULLAS highlights the urgent need for both federal and provincial governments to collaborate to improve access to quality education and could provide valuable insights for a similar initiative in Pakistan.
Approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ULLAS scheme aims to provide not only foundational literacy and numeracy but also essential 21st-century skills, including financial literacy, digital skills, commercial skills, healthcare awareness, child care, and family welfare.
The ADB's recommendation precedes a visit by ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa to Pakistan, where he will meet with Pakistani stakeholders on Monday.
A report from Pakistan's Planning Commission revealed that the education system is in crisis, with all 134 districts, except Islamabad, falling short in areas such as learning outcomes and public financing. The report highlighted a human resource crisis, with many entering the job market with insufficient education.
Last week, Pakistan declared an education emergency on International Literacy Day to address the needs of around 26 million out-of-school children.
Follow us
