At the primary level, students are: From 36 million students in the system overall,

At the primary level, students are: From 36 million students in the system overall,

(a) 10.5 million
(b) 15.6 million
(c) 17.8 million
(d) 20.9 million

✅ Correct option: (b) 15.6 million

Explanation (200+ words)

Out of the 36 million students enrolled in Pakistan in 2005–06, approximately 15.6 million were at the primary level. This represents the largest share of students in the education system, highlighting the critical role of primary education in achieving literacy and foundational skills.

Primary education typically covers grades I–V and caters to children aged 5–9 years. The large enrollment at this stage reflects national priorities to achieve universal primary education, although challenges such as teacher shortages, rural–urban disparity, and gender gaps persist.

For PPSC, knowledge of primary-level student numbers is essential for answering MCQs related to enrollment distribution, resource allocation, and planning priorities.


10 PPSC-Relevant Facts

  1. Primary students = 15.6 million
  2. Largest share of 36 million total
  3. Age group: 5–9 years
  4. Grades I–V
  5. Foundation for literacy
  6. High demand for teachers
  7. Gender gap significant
  8. Rural–urban disparities
  9. Basis for UPE monitoring
  10. Direct MCQ in exams