Free classes target in Education Policy 1972–80:

Free classes target in Education Policy 1972–80:

Options:
(a) Class 3
(b) Class 5
(c) Class 8
(d) Class 10

✅ Correct Option: (b) Class 5

Explanation (200+ words)

The Education Policy 1972–80 declared free education up to Class 5 for every child in Pakistan. This was based on the belief that universal primary education was essential for national progress. At that time, millions of children were out of school due to poverty, limited access, and lack of schools.

Making education free up to class 5 aimed to reduce dropout rates and improve literacy. The government expanded school buildings, recruited teachers, and attempted to provide textbooks and learning materials.

Although implementation challenges remained, the free primary education policy became a foundation for future education reforms in Pakistan.

10 PPSC Facts

  1. Free education up to class 5.
  2. Universal primary education was top priority.
  3. Government built new primary schools.
  4. Teacher recruitment increased.
  5. Dropout reduction was key goal.
  6. Many rural schools opened.
  7. Textbooks subsidized.
  8. Policy aligned with UNESCO goals.
  9. Adult literacy campaigns linked to this.
  10. Foundation for later policies (1992, 1998).