A joint report by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and the Free and Fair Election Network (FAFEN) has identified some of the worst-performing districts in Punjab’s education sector, based on a wide range of academic and infrastructure indicators.
The report evaluated public schools across Punjab using more than a dozen indicators, including enrollment levels, examination performance, access to clean drinking water, electricity, and availability of basic facilities, to measure overall education quality and service delivery.
According to the findings, Rahim Yar Khan ranked among the bottom three districts in the province in terms of educational performance. The district also recorded one of the lowest literacy rates in Punjab, trailing Rajanpur and Dera Ghazi Khan.
In contrast, Lahore showed notable improvement, with education facilities and service availability reaching around 80 percent. This performance placed the provincial capital fifth among Punjab’s districts, reflecting stronger infrastructure and better access to educational resources.
Officials said the report highlights a growing gap between urban and underdeveloped districts, stressing the need for targeted education reforms, improved infrastructure, and better resource allocation to uplift struggling regions.